Ten Months

by Orrymain

It's that time! Jack and Daniel start their family! Witness it all, from the insemination through those first crazy weeks when they come home from the hospital!

8. Chapter Eight

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-- Chapter Eight: Faint of Heart!

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"Wow!" Janet said as she looked around the room that she and Cassie were sharing with Sam at the Garden of the Gods Country Club. "How much do you think Daniel's salary was?"

"Whatever it was, I think we underestimated it all those years."

"They just want all of us to have a good time," Cassie said as she unpacked her overnight bag. "Besides, they aren't paying for everyone. Just us special people."

"Right," Janet scowled at her daughter.

"I can't wait to be pampered again," Sam spoke jovially.

"What's the schedule for the day?" Janet asked, as she nodded at their specially engraved invitations to the weekend event that included an individually designed schedule for each of their very special friends.

Jack and Daniel had gifted those in their extended wedding party with a weekend at the facility. On Saturday, they'd all be treated to a special day of body pampering. There would be a group lunch and cocktail party, and then the wedding would take place at sunrise and be followed by a brunch reception.

The guests would each have a massage featuring an aromatherapy soak with herbal extracts and essential oils; facials that for the women would include a deep cleansing, gentle steam, facial massage, specialty ampoule and a specialty mask and for the men a deep cleansing process, facial massage, intensive hydrating mask and calming protective barrier to assist in soothing the irritation caused by razor burn; a manicure with special attention given to cuticles and a pleasurable hand massage; a pedicure that featured exfoliation and a massage with Alpine oil; and finally, a shampoo and blow dry.

As for Jack and Daniel, they had arranged to have a "Romantic Couples" massage. Of course, they planned ahead, making sure no one would be "shocked" at the couple. Their special pampering included a private hour with dual aromatherapy massages by candlelight, complete with rose petals.

The day went smoothly. Various guests chatted as they checked in and passed each other during their pampering sessions, and all were eager to attend the evening's cocktail party.

The happy couple had decided this would be the best option, considering their decision to be married at sunrise, as it would allow for an early evening. They had asked that guests not bother with gifts, requesting that if anyone felt the need to give them something, then they should give to their favorite environmental or children's charity.

"Mom, do you think they'll be surprised?"

Cassie had been looking forward to the cocktail party all day and couldn't wait for her favorite uncles to arrive.

"Totally, Sweetie."

"Here they come!" Frances grinned, toddling over to join her sister, Crystal. "I can't wait to see those two again."

"This is so exciting," Megan beamed.

Jack and Daniel entered the large reception area and were greeted by their family of friends. Hugs were exchanged, memories recalled, and laughter was in abundance.

Then, Erik clanged on his glass to get everyone's attention. Erik was a friend of Jack's from his childhood and high school days in Chicago. They hadn't seen each other in years until they had accidentally ran into each other when Jack had taken his lover to back to his hometown to show him some of his old childhood haunts.

The room was crowded, and everyone was having such a good time that Erik needed some help to get the group's attention, so Teal'c, wearing his "Murray" hat and identity for the evening, whistled loudly.

Jack stared at his friend, stunned, and then leaned over and whispered in Daniel's ear, "Did you teach him that?"

"No, not me."

Suddenly, Sam, Janet, and Cassie all let out a series of loud, near-deafening whistles to quiet room.

Jack and Daniel stared at each other, speaking at the same time, "That's who he learned it from!"

"Listen up, Folks," Erik began, "Those of you privileged to be at Jack's and Daniel's first wedding know that it was pretty perfect. It would be ridiculous to try and top that, so we're not going to ... but we do have a few surprises for our friends here."

"Should we duck out now?" Jack joked loudly.

"Just watch, my friend."

"First of all, these two thought they could get away with asking us not to bring them any gifts!"

"Oh, gawd," Daniel said softly, whispering to Jack, "It's not that we were being selfless, we just don't have room for anything."

"Tsk! Tsk! Tsk!," Erik shook his head. "Sam? You want to do the honors?"

Sam smiled and went to stand by Erik to address the group. As she talked, Erik slipped off to the side to go help with the surprise.

"I'm sure everyone knows that Jack and Daniel are about to become parents."

Whoops and hollers went up in the room. Mark patted Jack on the back, and Suz gave her foster sibling a kiss on the cheek. Kayla was radiating as she gently rubbed her bulging belly, showing it off to the guests. Jack and Daniel radiated, too, as they both looked at the young woman with sweet smiles on their faces.

"Well, I happen to know that they've been squabbling ..."

"We are NOT squabbling," Jack said sternly.

"We don't squabble," Daniel reiterated.

Sam stared at them, and then Daniel clarified, "We bicker!"

"Oh. Sorry. I happen to know," Sam smiled, "that these two are still bickering over nursery styles. They've gone back and forth from modern to traditional, maple or cherrywood, natural ... oh geez, and should it be Jay Jay or Winnie the Pooh or Mickey Mouse. To tell you all the truth, it's been the happiest bickering I've ever heard!"

Most everyone smiled, making eye contact with others in the room as Sam spoke some more, "But you haven't decided yet, right?"

"Right," the two said in unison.

"Good. We decided for you."

"What?" both men said at the same time.

"Fellas!" Sam looked over at several of the men who brought out the special gifts for the happy couple -- Evan and Robert (Mrs. Valissi's son and his partner), Mark Wilson (Sara's husband), John Miller (one of their neighbors), Sergeant Siler (from the SGC), their attorney -- Mark Kingston -- and Erik.

"Oh, Jack! Wow!" Daniel spoke enthusiastically as he walked over towards the nursery furniture.

"It's handcrafted," Sam said, "by a friend of Evan's using only the best materials, of course."

"It's too much, but it's perfect," Jack said as he looked over the crib, cradle, changing table, double drawer chest, and set of two toddler beds.

"Now, I know you're wondering how it can be handmade and done so quickly. The truth is that a lot of us have been planning this as baby shower present, but when you requested that no one bring gifts, we thought folks might want to contribute to this."

"And it's so cool," Cassie jumped in. "Everyone contributed. Everyone here. I think that says a lot about who my uncles are. Uncle Jack and Uncle Daniel, you know how much I love you both. I really want you to remember this because ... well, I was the financial director of this project, and well, I didn't have to bug anyone. Not a goofball in the bunch!"

"Wow!" Daniel said, still marveling and examining the furniture.

"Plus," Janet spoke up, "We collected so much that we have a coupe of sizeable gift certificates that we arranged for at a couple of the best stores so that when you decide on Jay Jay or Mickey, you can go get the mobiles and smaller accessories."

"I think we need diapers," Jack commented.

"No, we got you those. Actually, we purchased a diaper service for you, too. Figured you might need it," Sylvia beamed, adding to discussion while silently thinking, "Trust me ... you ARE going to need all of these things!"

"Oh, Jack," Daniel leaned into his husband. "We have the best friends."

"The best family," Jack whispered, giving Daniel a kiss on his temple.

"My turn!"

"Oh, no! Watch out! The ex-wife is about to speak!" Jack teased.

"And this ex-wife demands your attention, Sir!"

"Now she says 'Sir'! I tried for years to get her to say that. Actually, I always wanted her to salute me after ..."

"JACK!"

Daniel hit his lover sharply.

"He'll never change," Sara said, not trying to cease her growing laughter one bit. "I have a surprise, too. Jack and Daniel, I know you both wanted Lisa to come and preside over this special occasion, but as you know, her husband had a photography assignment overseas, and he wanted her to go with him. Unfortunately, it wasn't just a trip, but a second honeymoon for them, and one they'd been planning for a very long time. So, I know you've arranged for a replacement, and I'm sure they'll be great."

Jack and Daniel nodded, but both looked at each other, sharing a silent wish that Lisa had been able to attend.

"Well, I should tell you. I fired the replacement."

"You did what?"

"You heard me, Jack O'Neill. Fired him! I got my own replacement."

"Sara!" Jack said with a warning, not sure whether she was teasing or if he should strangle her.

"Here's your replacement, Jack," Sara pointed to the back of the room.

"Oh my ... LISA!" Daniel exclaimed, a huge smile on his face.

"What the ... Holy Wedding ... Way to go ex-wife!"

Jack actually walked to Sara and gave her a pick hug, picking her up. He placed a kiss on her cheek and whispered very quietly, "Thank you, Sara. You really are a peach. I mean that."

"Aw, Jack. Go say 'hello' to Lisa."

Jack nodded, and headed over to greet Lisa. Daniel was already there, smiling and chatting happily with Lisa and her husband, Carl, as they worked their way across the room.

"We couldn't miss this," Lisa chimed.

"Thank you so much," Daniel said, fighting back a tear as he hugged her.

"Carl, you didn't have to interrupt your trip for us," Jack said sincerely as he shook the man's hand.

"Lisa nagged me something crazy."

"I couldn't miss the chance to officiate your wedding ... again! You two are very special people, and it meant a lot to Sara, too."

She's amazing, Jack. Sara, I mean.

Yeah. No argument from me. She's not you, though, Love, and this is how's it's supposed to be -- you and me. Geez, I'm happy, Danny.

Me, too.

The party continued on for a while, Jack and Daniel both overwhelmed at their wedding presents and special surprise!

They visited with their guests and were happy to see that Dale and Nancy Rancolini had come, as had Sean and Barbara Douglas. Dale, Sean, and Jack all owned airplanes now, and the old Air Force Academy buddies had begun meeting a couple of times a month just to talk about flying, something Daniel highly approved of.

"Okay, Uncles," Cassie said, approaching the couple at the agreed upon hour of ... 9 p.m.

"Cassie, you are so NOT separating us this time," Jack pulled Daniel to him, holding onto him tightly in a big dramatic movement, "He's mine, and I'm not sleeping without him!"

"Jack, she just wants to say goodnight."

"Oh. Well, that's okay then."

"I love you, Jack," Daniel said, leaning in to give his love a kiss.

====

"Morning, My Love," Jack kissed the top of Daniel's head and caressed his back.

"Shhh, J'ck ... sleep'ng."

"Oh. Danny, it's 0400."

"That's nice. Now, go sleep, J'ck," Daniel moved his head slightly on Jack's chest, as if trying to bury himself in amongst the gray chest hairs.

"Angel, sunrise is in ninety minutes."

"Shhh ..."

"Danny?"

"Wha? Gaw...yawn shhh ..."

"Daniel!"

"What, Jack?"

Daniel finally moved his head to look at his husband, angry at being disturbed.

"Sunrise."

"So?"

"We're getting married."

"That's nice, Jack. NOW BE QUIET AND GO TO SLEEP!"

Daniel put his head back down on his Jack pillow and closed his eyes.

Jack hummed the wedding march for a minute. His Danny was not a morning person, especially after a late night like last night. While the cocktail party may have ended at a decent time, the two lovebirds had been engaged in a passionate love fest that went on until after midnight. Jack wondered now if maybe they should have had Cassie keep them apart. He was beginning to get concerned that he might not be able to roust his lover.

"WEDDING? OH MY GAWD! JACK ... WHAT TIME IS IT?"

Daniel shot up out of bed in a panic, causing Jack to laugh as he quickly rose and went to Daniel.

"Danny, we have plenty of time for a nice, calm shower."

"Calm?"

"No hanky panky."

"I like hanky panky."

"Yeah, well if we hank our panks we'll miss our wedding."

"No hanky panky," Daniel sighed as Jack kissed him.

"Jack? We're getting married."

"Again. Don't forget. You are already mine, so no backing out."

"Never. Love you so much."

"Love you, too, but we need to scoot."

====

Sunrise would be at 5:34 a.m. and that is when the wedding ceremony would commence at a secluded overlook.

"So beautiful," Jack crooned into his lover's ear as he embraced him.

"And you're so sexy. I love these outfits, Jack. I'm glad we're getting to wear them again."

"Me, too."

The couple had decided to wear the same clothing they'd worn at their November 2003 wedding -- cream colored Filipino Barongs, each with an unique embroidered pattern, and white pants.

At 5:10 a.m., Sam and Janet knocked on their door, impatiently waiting for a response.

"You know, Janet, I'm thinking we should have separated them. I'll bet they ..."

"You bet they what, Carter?" Jack asked with a grin on his face as he opened the door.

"Nothing, Sir. Where's Daniel?"

"Here! I'm right here!" Daniel scooted in quickly between Jack and the door. "I was, uh ..."

"Oh, you two ready?"

"Oh, yeah," Jack said as he looked at Daniel and smiled.

They used a golf-cart type vehicle to head to the site of the wedding. Sam drove with Janet sitting next to her and the nervous couple in the back.

"Hey, what are you thinking about?"

"It's silly," Daniel said, looking off to his right.

"Tell me."

"Part of me wishes the girls were here. I told you. It's silly. They're dogs, but ... I just ... gawd, it's silly."

"Not really, Love, not the way we treat them, and to be honest, I miss the little beasties. I wish they were here, too."

"We should have brought them."

Sam and Janet shared a grin undetected by the two as they continued on.

"It's lovely here," Daniel said as they got out of the vehicle near a tent that had been set up for them to wait in.

The two strolled around the tent, too nervous to sit down.

Outside, some one-hundred fifty of their friends were seated in a circle around a shrine. The shrine was made of two circular platforms, one slightly higher than the other, topped by a canopy of red and yellow roses. More roses had been placed around the base of the platform in the shape of interwoven hearts. A slew of rose petals also lined the path that led from the tent to the circle.

At one side of the circle, overlooking a beautiful vista, a trio of friends played soft and gentle music, the combination of violin, guitar and harp forming a lovely yet unique chorus. It was the perfect musical harmony and made a pleasing backdrop to the lovely floral decor of the setting.

At the center of the shrine, on the top platform was an elegant white archway, completely covered with vines and various colored roses.

Jack and Daniel sneaked a peak outside the tent at their family of friends. The two had been stunned at how many had accepted their invitation to their wedding, especially the military types. The first few rows were reserved for their closest family of friends, including those who had attended their first wedding.

Over in a corner, Sara and Sam were huddled together.

"You think they'll do it like we rehearsed it?" Sara asked, hoping their surprise would go off without a hitch, and yet terrifed that it wouldn't.

"They are so smart, Sara. It's uncanny."

"It's going to be quite a surprise, but it could backfire."

"Maybe, but I'm betting it comes off without a hitch." Sam was confident. The two in question would not let them down. "By the way, where's Mark?"

"He's checking on Angela. She was being fussy. It's a little early for her."

"Hello, Ladies," Jack smiled. "Here we are again!" The three laughed. "What happened to Daniel?"

"Suzanna stole him away for a minute. I think she's having troubles with her boyfriend."

"Time to get this show on the road!" Erik announced with a grin.

"Erik, you always worry me when you look like that."

"The surprises aren't over, Jack."

"Yeah, well, if we don't find my wayward husband, nothing will happen," Jack said, moving to look around various people in the tent as he tried to find Daniel.

"Let's go folks," Erik began to usher people out.

"Hi!"

Daniel smiled as he returned from his conversation with Suzanna.

"She okay?"

"She will be. I love you, Jack."

"Love you, too, Angel! Ready?"

"Yes!"

Their ceremony today would be as unique as their first, a combination of tradition and their own version of normality. It would begin with words from their biggest fan and supporter, Cassie.

As the sweet chorus of the musical instruments continued, Cassie walked to the center of the circle, stopping in front of the shrine. She smiled and clasped her hands together in front of her.

"Wow! What a great turnout, and no two people deserve it more than my uncles ... Jack and Daniel. They told me to keep it short, that they didn't want a lot of accolades or fancy words. Tough! My Uncles are the greatest two people on the face of the Earth. They are here today to get married -- again. It's a special day, and I know how much it means to them to have all of you here, supporting them, showing your love ... and I do know that for some of you, that wasn't an easy choice."

Cassie moved and walked around the circle as she spoke, a smile never leaving her face.

"As you can see, for their wedding, they've asked us to join together, to link ourselves in a ring. The circle has no beginning and no end, just like their wedding rings, just like our friendships and our love. It's constant and ongoing."

Cassie took a deep breath and grinned, looking up at the sky and then off towards the vista for a moment.

"It's such a beautiful morning, and for these two special people we are lucky enough to know, it will be an unforgettable one. Jack and Daniel have asked some of their dearest friends to participate today. Again, sometimes, it wasn't an easy choice for them to make."

"It wasn't so hard, Cass," Lou Ferretti spoke up.

Cassie laughed, making a challenge, "Maybe not for you, Lou. You were just afraid Uncle Jack would never help you again with the Monstermobile if you didn't show up!"

Cassie was referring to Lou's monster truck that Jack frequently helped him maintain. Several in attendance laughed, including a squirming Lou Ferretti.

Cassie grew serious as she continued her remarks.

"Two hearts who beat as one. Two souls who live as one. One union. One breath. Uncle Jack and Uncle Daniel are joined in a way I hope to understand myself one day. It's a love I marvel at. It's a love I want to know." Then the young woman smiled brightly. "Uncle Jack? Come on down!"

As the music filled the air, Jack walked along the path to the edge of the circle, Teal'c a single step behind him. As Cassie spoke they stepped onto the lower platform of the shrine.

"This is my Uncle Jack ... and this is ...Murray who stands next to him, not as a Best Man as such, but as a dear friend, one who promises to always be supportive and be true to what is right."

"Uncle Daniel? You're on!" Daniel walked down the path, with Sam behind him, and they, too, stepped up onto the shrine beside Jack and Teal'c.

"This is my Uncle Daniel ... and this is Samantha who stands next to him, not as a Best Man, or Woman, as such, but as a dear friend, one who promises to always be supportive and be true to what is right."

Cassie was about to burst with joy as she saw her mother nod. With laughter ringing in her voice, she said, "And now ..."

"Woof! Woof! Woof! Woof!"

Bijou and Katie walked eagerly down the path, tails wagging, each wearing their own custom made mini-Barongs.

"Oh my Gawd!" Daniel exclaimed, breaking into laughter.

"The girls!"

Jack grinned, and both men left their spots on the platform, eager to greet their dogs. Seconds later, each bent down to greet their babies.

"You two look beautiful!" Jack boasted.

"Love you so much!" Daniel said.

"Bijou, Katie! Positions!" Cassie ordered.

Jack and Daniel looked up at Cassie, totally surprised, especially when the two dogs hopped up onto a moderately sized pillow at the side of the shrine. The couple looked at each other, totally thrilled with the presence of their dogs.

"I wondered what that pillow was for," Jack whispered to Daniel as they returned to the circular shrine, resuming their previous positions.

"For those who don't know, these," Cassie pointed back to the two dogs, "are Bijou and Katie, my uncles' two beautiful beagles. They are here because ... well, where else would they be right now, but here with the two people who have given them so much love?"

Cassie looked out at the sea of smiles surrounding her. She really did hope that she'd be as lucky as Jack and Daniel, not just in love, but in friendship. With a warm sincerity, she spoke again.

"Thank you all for being here to share in our circle of love. Lisa ..."

Lisa Anderson Cassidy walked up the aisle from the tent. She stopped in the middle of the circle at the shrine, taking a moment to pet Bijou and Katie.

"Where to begin? It's an interesting question since we're all part of an unending circle; yet even circles have some catalyst that first created their bond. For Jack and Daniel, their bond was built on an unique understanding of the other. Both have overcome a wealth of issues, tragedies, and things that have threatened to come between them, but no matter what, they've not let their bond weaken. So, here we are, together again, to celebrate the love and union of Retired General Jonathan 'Jack' O'Neill and the very unmilitary Doctor Daniel Patrick Jackson."

Lisa turned and stepped up to the top step.

"It is tradition at weddings to have a Best Man and Maid of Honor. Today, we have a Best ... Family, two people who honor Jack and Daniel by being at their side. It is also tradition at a wedding to have someone give the bride away. Well, we don't have a bride, but we do have two wonderful men who want only to belong to each other.

"I wonder ... is there someone here who would give these two away ... to each other?"

The crowd looked around, a bit unsure of what to expect.

"It is with great honor and respect, that I present General O'Neill and Doctor Jackson to each other."

"Holy Hannah!" Sam said, surprising herself.

"Holy Hannah is right!" Lou repeated.

Jack and Daniel grinned watching Major General George Hammond walk down the path stopping between them both. Holding his head up high, facing Lisa, General Hammond added, "In all honesty, I don't know anyone else who would put up with them except for each other. They can be stubborn, insubordinate, unconventional and downright make a man wish he had hair again just so he could pull it out!"

Laughter erupted from the crowd. Hammond turned to Jack and shook his hand. He spoke with a lightness in his tone and with a deep sincerity in his voice and eyes.

"General O'Neill, you take good care of our boy."

"I will do that, Sir!"

Hammond turned to Daniel and shook his hand.

"Son, don't let him spin any more of those yarns than he already does. He's incorrigible enough as it is."

Daniel laughed in agreement. Then he nodded and spoke appreciatively, "Thank you, General ... for being here."

The General started to walk to his seat, but he stopped and turned around, staring at the crowd. He looked back at Lisa and said, "As I recall, when I gave my daughters away, I did it a bit differently. I see no reason why two people who love each other shouldn't have some tradition, do you?"

Lisa shook her head. She didn't know what the Major General had planned, though she had an inkling the military might not approve of whatever it was. She answered simply, "That's why I'm here, General Hammond -- tradition."

"All righty then."

Hammond took a breath, walked back to Jack and Daniel and stood tall. He reached out with his right hand expectantly. Daniel stared at Jack and then at the Major General who said simply, "Son, your hand."

Nervously, Daniel held out his hand.

"General ..."

Jack swallowed. This, he hadn't expected, but who was he to buck the usual uniqueness of their life, so he also extended his hand.

The crowd watched spellbound as Hammond united the two hands with his on top. A pin could be heard dropping when the leader of the SGC spoke firmly, "General O'Neill, Doctor Jackson, I give you to each other, with honor, respect, and friendship. Good luck!"

The Major General walked away, leaving a stunned Jack and Daniel latched on to each other's eyes, their hands connected.

"Gawd, Jack," Daniel spoke, totally overwhelmed yet again, and eternally grateful that George Hammond was someone he could call 'friend'.

"Expect the unexpected, Love."

"Gentlemen ..." Lisa motioned for Jack and Daniel to walk forward a couple of steps.

With a smile to the guests, Lisa focused on Jack and Daniel.

"I'm honored to be here today, to once again share in a celebration of the wondrous love that Jack and Daniel share. They didn't want anything too involved, just a simple reminder that they are one heart and one soul.

"I read a poem recently that reminded me of these two men, so I've decided to share it with all of you. The title is Question Not.

"Question not my love for thee, but hold it true,
and see nothing less in my eyes than adoration.
For if indeed, this affectionate thread, this harmonious union is able to be doubted,
what hope is left then for lovers anywhere?
We sit, and gaze long moments as human words fail,
in silent expression of our souls who yearn to soar toward the stars and moon,
and float toward the earth and collapse once more,
entwined within a gentle embrace.
Question not the vows which I whisper to your name,
but store them within your innermost chambers,
and hold them bound as you hold me,
moved beyond all sense of space and time.
Drink me in with but a look, a breath that plays warm against my skin,
then gladly, no vile onslaught shall wring me from your side.
Question not my love for thee, but hold it true,
and till death I shall always be for you,
your one true love."

Lisa paused to give everyone a moment to let the words of the poem sink in, and then she continued.

"It's a beautiful poem, and the only part of it that I disagree with, and that I know Jack and Daniel would as well, is the ending. So let me revise it now. Question not the love these two share for each other, but hold it true, for time and all eternity, each shall always be for the other, their one true love."

She turned to the younger man standing before her.

"Daniel, what would you like to say to Jack today in celebration of your love and commitment to each other?"

Daniel gazed into Jack's eyes. He said nothing for several seconds and then he shook his head as he began, "You'd think I'd be better at this the second time around."

"You are the linguist," Jack teased softly.

"I'm not so sure about that. See, that's one of the things I love about you, Jack. You always say you're so bad with words, but you're not with me. You are one of the world's truly great romantics. It sounds corny, but gawd, you've swept me off my feet time and time again with ... rose petals and sensuous scents and words that make my heart sing.

"And these hands," Daniel looked down at their entwined hands and let out a silent chuckle, "they're so strong, but they make me feel so loved and wanted. I love you, Jack. I know it makes no sense, but it's the way it is.

"If I could have dreamed of finding someone perfect to love and be loved by, I could never have imagined you, Jack, because you're beyond my dreams and my imagination. We share a commonality, a single purpose that I didn't know was possible, not even after we first got together.

"Gawd, Jack, I was so sure it would end, that you'd get tired of me and walk away."

"No, Angel. How could you ever think that?"

"Look at you," Daniel moved his right hand to Jack's face. He traced Jack's eyes and spoke softly, "Your eyes shine so bright. There's character there; depth, and this ..." Daniel ran his hand through his lover's silver-gray hair, "gawd, I love this. You're so sexy, Jack.

"And goodness knows, you're not the dummy you've allowed so many people to think you are."

"Let's not make assumptions," Jack tried to tease.

"No assumptions, Love. You're funny and caring and so giving. Me? I was that geek, always putting work first, feeling guilty about ... about Sha're. I never thought I deserved you, especially because of ... of her."

"Aw, Danny."

Jack comforted his love with a small kiss, their lips just brushing.

Just like their first wedding, they were doing their vows their way. There would be nothing conventional about their wedding, except that it was an unconventional traditional wedding. Their vows weren't being done as the usual string of promises, but rather as a conversation that spoke of their love and deepest feelings, almost as if they were alone in their nation of two.

"You've seen me at my worst, but you still love me," Daniel smiled as he spoke. "You've compromised and given in ... you've kept me safe. It took a while, but now you even listen to me."

"You have the most beautiful voice, Danny."

"And that's important, too."

"Your voice?"

"No -- 'Danny'. I can be Danny with you. Actually, you showed me that I could be Danny with myself. Jack you gave me life in so many ways," Daniel moved his hand down to caress the area just over Jack's heart, "your heart is mine. There's no difference anymore, and I thank you for giving me that gift of love and oneness."

Daniel took a breath and again entwined his hands with Jack's.

"We have a big future planned. We're going to be parents. I don't think everyone here knows that, but soon, very soon, we'll have our own baby, our first, and I'm so excited about sharing that little life with you. We have so much love to give.

"I promise you that I will love and honor you for the rest of time. I cherish you, Jack O'Neill. You are my heaven, and I question not that we are forever. I love you so much."

Daniel nodded at Lisa, who spoke to the older man, "Jack, what would you like to say to Daniel today in celebration of your love and commitment to each other?"

"My Danny. I tried, too, to discover those magic words, but just like before, I couldn't find them. All I can say is that you've made me a whole human being. You've showed me how to care in a way that I never knew I could. You can be such a nag."

"I do not nag."

"Sometimes, you do."

"I do not."

"Do, too."

"I do not nag, Jack."

"You ... persevere then."

"Jack?"

"Yes, Love."

"I love you, but you are in serious jeopardy of spending tonight alone." The crowd laughed and Daniel blushed. "Gawd, I wish I wouldn't do that!"

"Don't worry, Love. There's only one-hundred fifty or so of our best friends and co-workers here."

"That doesn't make me feel any better, Jack."

"How about this?"

Jack leaned in for a tender kiss.

"Yeah, that works."

Daniel smiled shyly.

"So where was I?"

"You were about to say how I do NOT nag."

"Oh yes, Danny doesn't nag."

Jack looked out over the crowd as he spoke, causing many to chuckle.

"Sorry," Daniel said shyly. "I'm ... persistent sometimes."

"And that's because you need to be with me. I'm not the easiest man in the world to live with."

"You're not?" Daniel asked in mock surprise.

"Cute, Daniel!"

"Thank you. I'm glad you think so."

Jack broke out into laughter, his torso moving backwards as a result of his laugh.

"Geez, what you do to me. You make me laugh and want to live until time runs out, and even then, somehow, I know we'll go on together, wherever we are. You're my falling star, Danny, my good luck, my strength. Everything ... Everything I do is for you and only you ... and now," Jack smiled sweetly, "for our family. It's happening, Danny. You and I ... no more hiding, no more worrying about what people think. We're finally living our lives on our terms.

"I love you, Daniel, to the moon and back and to all the worlds in the universe and beyond. You are my life force, my stimulation, my reason for being. I promise you that I'll continue to drive you crazy because when I do you laugh and smile, and I live for that. And I promise, with all my heart, to treasure each and every moment we have in our nation of two ... and family," Jack added joyfully.

"I question not that you are my love, that we are forever and always. I love you so friggin' much!"

"And now before we continue with Jack's and Daniel's celebration of their love and unity, there's something I'd like to share. Jack and Daniel were forced to hide their love for years. When they were married at my home in Canada, they pledged their love and devotion, and they gave each other their rings, symbols of their togetherness which has no beginning and no end, only a forever. Since then, they've had to take their rings off numerous times, but they've told me that the last time they put them on, the day Jack announced his retirement, they promised to never remove their rings, and even on this occasion, they wish to keep the promise of that day, so we're ... improvising a little."

Jack and Daniel were locked onto each other's eyes, their hands still entwined, and both were smiling, no, grinning at the event that was happening. The crowd was bright with smiles, too, the good vibrations overflowing from the simple altar.

"Jack O'Neill, do you take Daniel to be your husband, to love, honor and cherish, for all of time?"

"Oh yeah, most definitely," Jack beamed his response.

"Daniel Jackson, do you take Jack to be your husband, to love, honor and cherish, for all of time?"

"With all my heart and soul, yes."

"Jack and Daniel have chosen to give each other a small token of their love. It's a golden pin with their initials bonding them together."

"Daniel ..." Lisa motioned.

Daniel turned to Sam who held out the pin. He smiled and kissed her on the cheek and whispered, "Thanks, Sam." Then Daniel gently affixed the pin to the collar of Jack's wedding Barong. Neither wanted to damage the sheer material so that was the agreed upon place that would be the safest.

"Question not, My Love. We are two bodies, but we're one mind, one heart and one soul," Daniel leaned down and kissed the golden wedding band that Jack wore, "forever and always, I love you."

"Jack ..." Lisa nodded.

Jack turned to "Murray" who nodded as he held out the pin. "Thanks, Big Guy," Jack grinned before turning to face Daniel and placing the pin on his collar.

"Question not, My Love. We may be two bodies, but our minds are joined in unison, and we are one heart and one soul." Jack traced the wedding band Daniel wore, and then leaned over and kissed it. When he looked again into Daniel's eyes, he spoke the words that had become their special words of devotion, "Forever and always, I love you."

"Jack and Daniel, I want to repeat what we did during your first ceremony. Please look deeply into the eyes of your loved one as you continue to hold hands. Say nothing with your voices, but speak only with your hearts and souls. Hear with your heart. Understand with your soul. Speak with your eyes."

Just as it had been during their first wedding, the intensity of the moment was awesome. Tears trickled down their faces, and a few sniffles were heard from those closest to the two men. Both pledged themselves to the other again, and each promised to never forget the preciousness of their love.

"Once again, I urge you both to remember what you've just shared, and when you have those difficult days, tap into this moment. Your love is enormous and so special. Remember your silent vows and bring them forth whenever necessary.

"And now, by all the powers that are holy in our world, with the blessings of nature and purity, using the joy of our hearts and the majesty of forever, I again pronounce you husband and husband, for time and all eternity. You may now give us a big thrill."

"With pleasure," Jack beamed, scooping Daniel up into his arms. It was a huge kiss, full of passion. "I love you."

"I love you."

"For the first time publicly," Lisa looked to the crowd, "Jack and Daniel wish to announce their formal change of name, and thus, it is with great pride and happiness, that I present to you, legally I might add, Daniel Patrick Jackson-O'Neill and Jonathan 'Jack' Jackson-O'Neill. Ladies and Gentlemen, the Jackson-O'Neills!"

The music blared as Jack and Daniel kissed again and worked their way back down the aisle, and when they reached the end, Jack picked Daniel up and spun him around.

"Jack, stop that!"

Daniel laughed loudly at his husband's actions.

"I can't. I'm too happy. Way too happy."

"Me, too."

"Hey, we need to get the girls."

"Gawd, they were so cute, Jack, walking down the path."

"Woof!"

"Hey, we were just coming to get you."

Jack leaned over and picked up Katie at the same time that Daniel took Bijou into his arms.

"Thank you, Girls," Daniel said as Bijou gave him a kiss.

"Party time again!" Suzanna announced, leading the couple to the brunch area where the party would be.

====

The brunch was a huge success. Though they hadn't ordered it, a four-tier cake was brought out, and once again, the happy couple stuffed each other with pieces of the decorative dessert. Several of their friends had toasted them, including General Hammond, Sam, Teal'c, Erik, and Suzanna.

"Okay, Uncles, it's time."

"Cassie, this really is too embarrassing," Daniel said softly.

"Oh, now you've peaked my curiosity,." Frances said, wondering what could possibly embarrass Daniel at this point.

"We had a deal, Uncle Daniel."

"Cassie, Daniel is right. After all, we're ..." Jack's words were interrupted by a stern look from the young woman.

"A deal is a deal, Uncle Jack. That's what you've always told me. Are you wimping out on our deal?"

"Come on, Jack. It can't be that bad," Lou jostled, "Can it?"

"We did promise, Jack."

"Only because she threatened to do that separation thing again."

"Come on, Uncles," Cassie said, putting one of her arms through one of each of theirs so that they walked towards the center of the room with Cassie in the middle.

"Who goes first?" Daniel asked his husband.

"You!"

"Why me?"

Jack shrugged his response, "Because I was smart enough to say you go first?"

"I think not!"

"We'll flip a coin," Cassie teased, taking out a nickel. "Heads or tails?"

"Heads!" both men called out.

"Tails" both changed their answer.

"Tails again" both said in unison.

"Okay, that's enough. I'll decide. Uncle Daniel, sit!"

Cassie gave Daniel a stern look, so he decided to give in and go along with her wishes.

"Have fun, Uncle Jack," Cassie said with a wink.

Jack scowled at his "niece" and then turned to Daniel and winked.

"Gawd, Jack, this is so embarrassing," Daniel said as he sat on the chair.

"What can we do? We promised her."

"Only because she threatened us. We should have ..."

Daniel stopped seeing Jack's "oh yeah?" expression as both remembered their passionate, all night lovemaking session the night before.

"Never mind, Babe. What's a little embarrassment at this stage of the game?"

Daniel shrugged with a smile.

"Okay folks -- eligible human beings line up here," Cassie motioned to an area.

"Eligible human beings?" Mrs. Harper asked.

"Sure. Male or female ... if you're single, you belong here."

"Oh, widows, too?"

"Widows, too," Cassie laughed.

Some fifty people, including Mrs. Harper who had been one of Daniel's neighbors when he had his apartment, ended up in the designated area.

"What do you think they are going to do?" Mitzi asked as she watched from her spot with her husband.

"With those two, who knows!" her husband replied.

"Maybe they're going to throw the bouquet," Evelyn Siler said.

"They didn't have one, dear."

"Well, they should have."

Sergeant Siler shook his head at his wife's comments and looked back at the center of the room to see what was happening.

"Uncle Jack, you're on!" Cassie urged again.

With a smile, Jack knelt down in front of his husband and slowly rolled up his left pant leg. With his fingers gently walking up Daniel's leg, Jack leaned forward and kissed Daniel. Jack let his fingers seductively knead the skin as he moved upwards towards the red garter Daniel wore at Cassie's insistence. Jack's fingers were like magic. He was only half way up Daniel's leg when Daniel leaned over and whispered something to him.

"Oh yeah?"

Jack grinned.

"Jack ... behave."

"That's no fun!"

"Oh, gawd," Daniel said softly.

Jack's moves were seductive, and he was enjoying this now. He was a bit surprised and disappointed though as he completed his task, that of reaching the garment and removing it from Daniel's leg, when Daniel, though looking at him, didn't react any further.

"Losing my touch," Jack said to himself, "not a good thing on our wedding day."

"Ready everyone?" Jack laughed as Cassie spun him around for a second.

"This isn't Pin the Tail on the Donkey, Cass," Jack whined.

Cassie just shrugged, and then Jack tossed the garter. The gathered guests all looked around to see who caught the first garter. When Jack saw, he burst out into laughter.

"I guess that qualifies, Big Guy."

The garter had landed on top of Teal'c's head.

"What is the meaning of this, O'Neill?" Teal'c inquired seriously.

"That's Jackson-O'Neill, Murray," Mrs. Valissi corrected.

"I'll explain it to him," Sam volunteered.

"You're turn, Uncle Daniel."

Daniel had a smile that seemed to have a distinct purpose. In fact, as he took his place on the chair, Jack shuddered from a brief moment of panic.

"Danny, what are you thinking?" Daniel only smiled. "Danny? Angel?"

"Paybacks, Babe."

Jack sat up straight as Daniel rolled up his husband's left pant leg. He let his hands massage the back of Jack's calf, kneading softly with tiny presses from the tips of his fingers. He leaned forward and kissed Jack's knee, at least to those present it looked like a kiss, but while it had begun that way, Daniel began to lick with his tongue, making flicking strokes and sucking actions.

Jack closed his eyes, wishing he had behaved himself. Certain body parts were starting to react, and that wasn't a good thing.

"Danny, Love ... oh, gawd," Jack whispered as Daniel's hands continued to rub against the inside of Jack's leg. "Daniel, we're not exactly alone here, you know."

"Hmm-mmm, seems I tried telling you that a few minutes ago. Paybacks, Jack."

"But Angel, do you really want me to walk around ... you know ... in front of everyone?"

"What an image," Daniel laughed, then quickly removed the garter, but as he got up, he let his hand slide up the inside of Jack's leg, up along his crotch, and over his chest, and then Daniel devoured Jack's mouth in a deep, wet kiss that had Jack sliding backwards in his chair and moaning.

"My, isn't it hot in here," Frances said, waving her napkin in front of her face.

"Yes, very," Evan drooled as he squeezed the buttocks of his husband, Robert.

"Okay, who wants it?"

Daniel cheerfully waved the garter around, having decided he would not die of embarrassment until after he and Jack were alone.

"Me! Me! Me!" Crystal called out.

"You're already married, Sis," Frances nudged the eager woman.

"I don't want the garter. I want the kiss!"

Everyone laughed and then Cassie did as she had done with Jack, spinning Daniel around a couple of times, and then the young man tossed the black garter into the crowd.

"GOT IT!" Janet yelled.

"Janet and Murray -- woo hoo!" Lou said enthusiastically!

Janet blushed nervously, risking a glance at Teal'c who nodded.

Cassie worked her way over to Janet, "Mom, you're blushing!"

"No, I'm not."

"You are, too. You have a thing for T...Murray, Mom?"

"Cassie, don't you have something to do, Dear?"

"Not at the moment."

"Well, find something."

Janet gave her daughter a kiss on the cheek and turned around to join their friends at the rest of the wedding.

====

The brunch was winding down. A good majority of their guests had stayed for the entire thing, something that had surprised the couple.

"Are you two going on a second honeymoon?" Lisa asked.

"Just a short one this time. With the baby coming, we don't want to go too far or be gone too long," Jack responded, placing a kiss on Daniel's temple as they stood with their arms around each other.

"So where to?"

"Actually, I don't know. Daniel's surprising me. Where are we going?"

"You'll find out soon enough," Daniel said as he leaned his head against Jack's shoulder.

"He loves surprises."

"Everyone loves surprises."

"Good, My Love, because I have another one for you."

"You do?"

"Carter!"

Sam looked over and Jack nodded. She put down her drink and disappeared.

"Jack, what are you planning?"

"You'll see!"

Fifteen minutes later, Sam returned, calling out,"Ready, Sir."

"May I have your attention, please?" Jack said boisterously as he moved to a small stage at the far corner of the room. Daniel and the others shifted their positions to move to that end of the room. "I'm going to keep this short. You all know I love this geek of mine to the ends of Earth, and beyond. Well, during our first wedding, we danced," Jack's voice turned soft as he had finished his words, his eyes looking down to Daniel, whose mouth opened as he took on the guppy look.

"I told our friends then that everything I am is because Daniel loves me. He makes me so much better than I really am. He challenges me, and no matter what idiotic thing I do to mess things up, somehow, someway, he digs into that well of forgiveness of his and the next thing I know, we're okay again."

Jack's focus hadn't moved from Daniel's eyes, their connection strong as he spoke, "We played a song that's become our song, or at least, it's my dedication song to this gentle man who makes me feel like the king of the universe."

Jack looked out at the crowd.

"The song was a beautiful piece, and I think it's only appropriate to ask my husband to dance to that song with me again."

Daniel smiled as Jack moved off the stage and walked towards him. Jack took his husband's hand and moved them to the center of the room and began to dance.

"Jack, there's no music."

"I hear music, Love. You are the harmony of my soul, the music of my heart."

"Oh, Jack. I love you so much."

"But you're right, Love. We should have music everyone can hear. Celine, want to help me out here?"

The crowd gasped! Daniel blinked his eyes several times, his mouth wide open as the curtain on the big stage swung open. The piano began to play, and then Celine began to sing.

"Gawd," Daniel said in shock.

"No, not Him. Celine Dion!"

Jack had lit up as if he had won the lottery, and he had. He had won Daniel's heart, yet one more time.

"Dance with me, Angel."

The two began to dance, concentrating mostly on each other, but looking over at Celine frequently. She sang an extra-long version, and it was especially poignant with only a handful of instruments being used.

"Jack? Geez, Jack. I never know what you'll do next."

"I like it that way," Jack whispered as he kissed his lover, then held him tight, and as he had done before, he sang softly into Daniel's ear that everything he was, was "because you love me."

"And that makes me ridiculously happy," Jack said as the song ended.

The couple went up on stage and thanked Celine who hugged them. They chatted for a couple of minutes and had a few photos taken before she left, needing to return to Las Vegas for her regular show.

Then the brunch reception faded to a memory, and it was Daniel's turn to surprise Jack.

"Okay, where are we going?"

"Well, it's not terribly romantic."

"It's not?"

"No. How could we top Australia, especially when we only have a couple of days?"

"We couldn't. So, where to?"

"I just thought we'd do something we've never done before, to be different, and maybe just have a good time."

"I always have a good time with you, Angel," Jack said as he kissed his husband, "but you still haven't told me where we're going."

"Rawhide, Arizona."

"Rawhide, as in head 'em up and move 'em out ... like the old TV show?"

"I don't know. I never saw the show, but it's an old western town with a great big steakhouse and lots of crazy ridiculous things to do that aren't even remotely related to Stargates and Goa'ulds."

"Now that works for me."

====

Returning from their honeymoon, the lovers headed for Jack's vehicle, parked in the airport parking lot. Jack saw Daniel looking back towards the airport, and he seemed a bit distracted.

"Danny, is something wrong?"

"It's still light out."

Jack looked around, nodding his agreement.

"You're point being?"

Daniel dropped the luggage he was carrying and walked to his husband. He kissed him passionately, his fingers playing with Jack's collar.

"Jack, take me flying."

"What?"

"Let's get Jo. It's still light out. We don't have to go anywhere. I just ... I want to be up there, with you, today, as part of our honeymoon. It's so peaceful up there."

"We'll be flying high in The Flying High. Our whole life is like that, Danny. Let's put this stuff in the truck, and take Jo up for a spin."

Daniel loved flying with Jack. He wished he had thought of it earlier, but then again, as the plane took off, he knew it was the perfect conclusion to their all-too-short second honeymoon. They soared through space, taking in the majesty of the blue skies, and then landed to return to their beloved home. It had been all been perfect -- again!

====

"Jack, don't even think about it!" Daniel warned as the two got out of Jack's F350 truck having driven home from the airport.

"Think about what?" Jack asked innocently.

"You know perfectly well what!" Daniel said, his mind replaying what Jack had done when they had arrived home from their Australian honeymoon.

"I have no clue what you're talking about, Daniel. Care to be a tad more specific?"

Jack stepped onto the porch. Daniel watched warily, but shook his head and said nothing. The retired General put the key in the door, and then suddenly said, "Crap. Danny, I left my coat in the truck. Will you get it for me?"

"Sure."

Daniel turned and headed back towards the truck. Jack unlocked the doors and pushed their bags inside.

A minute later, Daniel approached his waiting lover, who smiled, and said, "Thanks!" ostensibly reaching for the jacket, but in a covert move that caught Daniel offguard, the older man turned Daniel and picked him up.

"Oh, for crying out loud, Jack," Daniel laughed. "I should be angry."

"But you aren't. Come on. Admit it. You'd be disappointed if I hadn't done this," Jack said as he carried Daniel into the house.

"I'm admitting nothing," Daniel chuckled as Jack put him down and the two kissed tenderly.

"Hmm ... love you."

"Love you, too, Angel."

The two were tempted to go straight upstairs and make love, but as they stared into each other's eyes, both had the same thought, "The girls!"

They laughed together, and then went to greet their beloved beagles.

====

"Yeah, we got back last night. Had a great time! Daniel picked the perfect spot ... okay, that sounds good ... looking forward to it ... Bye."

Holding the mail in his hand, Daniel walked into the living room just as Jack hung up the phone, "Who was that?"

"Kayla. She's doing great. She invited us over for dinner tonight."

"What time?"

"Six, and Sylvia is going to be there." Daniel stopped sorting through the mail and looked up at Jack. Jack moved to Daniel and kissed him. "Everything's okay."

"You sure? I mean ... I don't know what I mean actually."

"She sounded fine."

"Okay."

The two started doing various tasks around the house, but within fifteen minutes both found themselves standing in front of the phone. Jack shrugged his shoulders, picked up the phone, and called Sylvia who chuckled and reassured them all was well.

====

"Sounds like you two had a great time."

"Yeah, we did, Syl. It was perfect. Of course, anywhere I am is perfect as long as Daniel's with me."

"Oh, Jack," Daniel leaned in and gave his husband a kiss. "Gawd, this feels good."

"I like being kissed myself," Kayla smiled.

"No, it's not that. Well, I mean, that's good, too."

"Gee, thanks, Doctor Jackson-O'Neill."

"I just meant ... not having to pretend and being able to do this, hold each other, kiss ... it's ... nice to be able to be open in front of people we care about."

"It must have been very difficult for you all those years," Kayla stated as she took a drink of lemonade.

"We're both pretty private, but, it was murder. Every touch, every look, every everything ... I mean, we always had to be careful."

"Not any more, Danny. We're free."

"Free."

"Okay, what?"

"It's just ... we are, but we aren't. Did you see how that couple looked at us at the restaurant yesterday?"

"I tried not to."

"I did, too, but I guess I noticed anyway," Daniel said sadly, adding, "It's not like we were doing anything except this," Daniel held up their joined hands and started to shake his head. "I'm sorry. I guess I'll just never understand why some people think we're so abnormal."

"It's just different, Daniel. People are uncomfortable with things that don't fit into their frame of reference," Sylvia explained.

"I know," Daniel nodded, "and yet I still don't understand. Our world preaches love, and yet when two people find it, we have so many rules. I didn't go looking for another man to love. I only looked for love, and one day, I felt it. I felt my heart giving itself to someone and I felt myself soaking in love, too. When I opened my eyes, the love was Jack. Why is that wrong? We're in love. Why don't they understand we're just people, like they are?"

Jack ran his left hand through Daniel's hair and kissed his temple, and then he nuzzled his chin against his husband's head as he spoke, "I don't know that we'll ever have the answer for sure."

"I just want people to understand," Daniel had grown deathly serious, and then he caught himself from continuing his commentary. Looking at Sylvia and Kayla, he leaned forward to pour a glass of lemonade for himself and as he did so, he apologized. "Sorry. I didn't mean to bring everyone down."

"Daniel," Kayla asked, "that's what your diaries are about, isn't it? I remember you mentioned them to me once."

"Yes, I've done a few, but the problem is that our missions are all classified, and I doubt they'll be declassified in our lifetime. I guess it's pointless, but I thought if I could write about what happened to us, maybe it would make it easier for the next guys."

"Or gals," Sylvia smiled.

"And you were okay with the diaries, Jack?" Kayla inquired.

"Daniel and I are private. You both know that, but this one," Jack mussed Daniel's hair as if he were a small child, "he feels a need to try and help, and I can't deny him that. Besides, now we're starting a family, and I agree. We need to do our part."

"You've read the diaries?"

"Most of them, at least the ones I know about."

"All of them," Daniel stated.

"You know what they are, Kayla? They are glimpses of our life, but take out the classified bits, make me 'Jacqueline' or Danny 'Danielle', and it could be about any happy couple, living life, going through their ups and downs."

"And at the end of the day," Daniel gazed into Jack's eyes, "all that matters is being together."

"Amen to that," Jack said softly, a sweet smile appearing on his face.

"Hey, how about a game of Scrabble?" Kayla asked.

"You dare to play with a linguist?" Jack teased.

"I'll take my chances," Kayla laughed, getting up gently to get the Scrabble game.

====

"Whew! Last piece!" Jack wiped his brow and sat on a crate near the door of the nursery.

Daniel stood by the crib and ran his hand along he top. He was focused totally on the handmade item.

"It's not an artifact, you know."

"Winnie the Pooh!"

"Mickey Mouse!"

"Winnie the Pooh!" Daniel repeated, smiling.

Jack rose and walked to Daniel, standing behind him and wrapping his arms around the young man's waist.

"Okay, Winnie the Pooh. Hey, when did you learn to like Winnie?"

Daniel turned and looked into Jack's eyes, "Suz liked Winnie. She used to make me watch it with her."

"Make you?"

Daniel laughed, admitting, "I liked it, too. Winnie was sort of ... different for a bear, and I was ... sort of different, too."

Jack kissed Daniel on the forehead and said, "I'm surprised you aren't a bigger fan of honey then."

"But I do love treehouses. Always ..." Daniel smiled and shrugged, then moved out of Jack's embrace and began to fidget with one of the boxes of baby items that they still had to unpack.

Jack looked down at the floor for a second and then asked, "Hey, do we want to put the changing table here, or over by the window?"

"Hmmm. Decisions, decisions!"

Daniel smiled as the two proceeded to finish setting up the nursery.

====

"Wow! That was ... mmm ... I love you, Danny," Jack said as Daniel fell to his chest, their orgasms still causing their bodies to tremble.

"Love you," Daniel said as he kissed Jack's chest.

The two whispered tender declarations of love as they touched and cuddled after their love fest. After quite a while, as Jack continued to caress his soulmate's back, Jack's mind went back to the nursery.

"Danny? Are you awake?" Jack kissed the top of Daniel's head as he continued to hold him securely. "Angel?"

Jack smiled, loving the feeling of his sleeping angel on him. After another minute, as he stared at the ceiling, Jack spoke quietly, "Winnie the Pooh. Winnie has a lot of friends, Danny. So do you, and you have me, forever and always. You're going to have that treehouse. Little boys should always have treehouses."

"Are you going to build me one?" Daniel asked groggily with a vulnerability that tugged on Jack's heart.

Jack was surprised to hear his husband's voice.

"Do you want me to?"

"It would be silly. We're going to be parents. We're supposed to be grown up and responsible. You can build one for our children later. Besides, what would I do with a treehouse at my age? Go to sleep, Babe. I love you."

"Love you, too, Danny. And we don't have to be grownup all the time, even with our own kids. I'll build you a treehouse, and the kids can grow into it."

Jack felt Daniel smile against his chest.

====

"No. Please don't. NO! Don't. She's just a little girl."

Jack woke, feeling Daniel thrashing about, his hands and arms moving restlessly against Jack's body. He heard the words.

"Danny! Daniel, wake up. Everything's okay."

"Don't ... please don't! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!"

"Danny, I'm here. You're safe!"

"Jack?" Daniel shifted to look down at his husband. "Gawd!"

Daniel moved off of Jack and sat on the side of the bed. Jack scooted over, kissing Daniel's bare back as he moved his hands to encircle the younger man.

"Haven't had a nightmare in a while, Love."

"Treehouse. I think it was the treehouse," Daniel spoke, briefly looking at Jack.

"You're still shaking, Danny. Come back here."

Daniel shook his head and got up. He walked towards the door and then stopped.

"Gawd, Jack."

Jack didn't need a second invitation. He jumped up and went to Daniel, turning his husband to face him.

"I love you, Angel," Jack said, embracing Daniel. "We don't have to use Winnie."

"It was my idea."

"I know, but ..."

"No," Daniel backed up slightly, "it was just something else I had forgotten about ... Carrie."

"The little girl who died?"

"Yes. She loved Eeyore. She was upset that he didn't have a treehouse, too."

"Angel."

Jack's hands caressed Daniel's face and slowly moved back to brush away the longer hair that Daniel now had. His fingers combed through the growing brown locks while Jack's thumbs tried to dry the escaping tears.

"Jack, she didn't deserve to die."

"No, she didn't, and neither of you deserved to be hurt the way you were."

Daniel looked up, almost in alarm.

"I got off easy."

"Did you? I don't think so," Jack drew Daniel into him, "I don't think so at all."

"They didn't ... rape me like they did her."

"I know," Jack held onto Daniel securely.

Daniel didn't say anything for a long time, but he stayed in Jack's embrace, his chin resting against Jack's right shoulder and his hands at Jack's lower back.

"Jed's friends," Daniel spoke with a distance in his voice. "One of them ... touched me. He made me touch him, too. I wanted to run, but they were holding me. Carrie was only six-years-old."

"I know."

Jack swore at the tormenting memory that was haunting his husband, and the reality that had taken a young life.

"They made me kiss her. Gawd. She was crying and ... they thought it would be cute. Jack, they said they'd rape her again if I didn't."

Kiss her? Oh, Angel. "You didn't have a choice, Danny. You were only eight. Angel, hear me. You didn't have a choice."

"Jack, have I blacked out anything else?" Daniel asked timidly, afraid of the answer.

Jack looked into Daniel's eyes and answered confidently, "No, you've remembered it all now."

"How can you be sure?"

"I don't know, but I am."

"Jed was there. What kind of a man, even if he was only seventeen, lets someone hurt his baby sister like that? She just wanted to play with her doll and listen to Eeyore. He threatened me, Jack. He was the one who touched me, not his friends. He was supposed to be my brother. I needed a brother, Jack. I needed someone so badly."

Daniel was crying into Jack's shoulder again. Every second seemed to result in a new memory recall that he didn't want. Jack's hands were warm on the young man's back, gently caressing up and down the bare skin, desperately trying to reassure him. The sobs intensified as Daniel tensed.

"It was Jed, Jack. Jed killed her. He let his friends rape her. He didn't care, not at all. He ... he did it, too, Jack. Gawd."

Daniel broke away. He wanted to run, but there was no place to run to ... except to Jack, so he did, going right back into his husband's arms.

"What happened the day she was ... the day she died, Danny?"

"It was like I said, except Jed was ... gawd, it was like he was insane."

"Did you see it, Danny? It's okay to remember now."

Daniel's fingers seemed to embed themselves into Jack's skin, but the older man didn't react. Pain didn't hurt, not that kind, not right now.

"No, but I heard ... I heard her screaming. I ... I ran downstairs and she was dead. The blood," Daniel's fingers pressed harder into Jack. "Oh, Jack, Jed picked her up. She was still screaming. He strangled her. He ... gawd, Jack."

"Let it out, Danny. Let it all out now. It's okay. Come on, Love. All of it now."

Five minutes later, Jack was still holding Daniel tight to him. He pressed his right hand against the back of Daniel's head, gently holding Daniel to him.

"You ready to lay down for a while?"

"Jack?"

"What?"

"Kayla looks like she could give birth any time now."

"Big as a truck as she says."

"So ... we can't do this once she has the baby."

"Do what?" Jack asked, confused.

Still shaken, Daniel pulled back.

"Can we get drunk? I mean ... just lock ourselves away here for twenty-four hours and get drunk?"

"Is that what you want?" Daniel nodded. "Okay, but let's put some clothes on first."

Quietly, the two put on their jeans, pepperstone ones for Daniel, black for Jack. Jack then slipped on a gray tee-shirt, but Daniel pulled it off of him, shaking his head.

"I need to feel you ... I mean ..."

"Okay. I understand," Jack said, reaching over and picking up a regular brown shirt, leaving the buttons unfastened. "Better?"

"Much."

Jack pulled out a blue shirt for Daniel. He buttoned it up except for the top couple, "You need to stay warm for a while." Daniel just stared at Jack who asked, "Trust me?"

Daniel nodded again, and the two went downstairs. Daniel went over to the patio door, but he noticed Jack had gone into the kitchen. A minute later, Daniel sighed.

"We can't get drunk. The girls."

Not hearing a response from his husband, Daniel turned around and saw Jack was preparing a snack for them and had turned on the coffee maker. Daniel smiled in wonder. He walked to the counter and sat on one the bar stools.

"You knew we couldn't get drunk."

Jack walked to the counter and put down the sandwiches he had prepared. He went to the other side and sat on the stool next to Daniel, spinning the stool slightly until the two faced he other. Jack took Daniel's hands in his.

"You don't really want to, Love. You never did like it when I got you plastered."

"But sometimes ... sometimes it helped. Like with Hathor."

"Did it? Or was it that we were together and just working through the hellacious event the best we could by being together. We couldn't do this," Jack squeezed Daniel's hands, "back then."

"I guess you're right. I just ... I guess I wish I could forget. You knew, didn't you? Not about getting drunk ... but Jed."

"My gut instincts told me there was something more, yes. As much of a torture as that whole thing was, I felt ... something was missing. It just ... it was like a puzzle with a piece missing."

"Jed was supposed to be my brother. I wanted a brother," Daniel sighed. "There's more, Jack."

"There is?"

"Not about that specifically. Jack, Nick came to town after that. They tried to convince him to take me."

"But he didn't."

"I told him, Jack. I told him what I saw."

"He didn't believe you."

Daniel shook his head.

"He thought," Daniel's voice weakened, "that I was trying to get his attention by making up some crazy story. He told me I should be ashamed of myself and that from then on, I needed to ... to just be quiet. He said children should speak only when spoken to."

Jack pulled back, still holding his husband's hands. His blood pressure shot up as he took in Daniel's statement.

"Daniel, are you telling me that that scared little boy, who hadn't said much of anything since watching his parents die, that little angel trusted his grandfather, and that same grandfather told him to shut up and mind his own business?"

Daniel nodded, his voice barely audible as he repeated Nick's words to him that day -- "The best little boys are quiet."

"What?"

"That's what Nick said. He just didn't want to deal with me."

"But you didn't know that then, so because of his words, you tried to be what he wanted. You shut out the nightmare and stopped talking. For how long, Danny?"

"A year."

"You didn't talk for a year ... a friggin' solid year?"

"Only in school, if I had to. I wanted Nick to want me, but he never came back. He didn't answer letters. He wouldn't respond to the social workers."

"But he wouldn't let you be adopted."

"Jack, he did the best ..."

"Don't, Daniel. Don't defend him to me. He left you. You told him a little girl had been murdered, that you had seen it, and he told you that little boys shouldn't talk. Do NOT defend him to me."

Jack was angrier than he had been in a very long time, and Daniel knew it. The archaeologist looked down as Jack struggled to regain his calm. I hope that selfish old man is miserable, wherever he is. How could he do that? I'll rip him in two if he ever shows up here again. Oh no, Nick Ballard. You will NOT ever again hurt my husband.

Jack was still steaming. He had suspected that Daniel might have seen more than he had revealed a few months earlier, but he hadn't suspected Nick of having ignored the words of his own grandson, and that was taking him over the edge. Anger management was not helping at the moment. Then he looked at Daniel, and that was the best method of calming a rage. Daniel needed Jack, not his rage. The older man took a breath and refocused.

"Danny, all those things we talked about before, they still apply. Tell me you know that."

"I do. I don't feel ... guilty like that anymore. But ... gawd, Jack, I wish I hadn't remembered."

"It'll be easier now."

"Easier?"

"It's always better when you face your demons. You taught me that."

"I did?"

"On Abydos, remember?"

Daniel smiled in remembrance, but then he shook his head.

"It's just that I didn't know I had any left. I'm so happy with you, Jack."

"That's why it's safe to remember. It can't hurt you anymore. Not what happened to Carrie or Nick's stupidity ..."

"Or Jed? I was so scared of him. I just didn't let myself think about it. When I was a little boy, before I blacked it out totally, I remember, Jack, having nightmares about him trying to find me, raping me and then ... killing me. They were so real. There was something so intense about him. Gawd, I wonder if he's still out there somewhere."

"Daniel, look at me. You're safe. You're home. We're happy as sin, and getting happier by the day. Focus on that. All that other stuff is history now."

"You think we'll ever completely stop having nightmares?"

"I don't know. Iraq, both times, still comes back to haunt me, but you always remind me that I'm safe."

"You are," Daniel leaned over and kissed Jack. "I'll always protect you."

"You always have, Love. And when those times come when my brain goes back to that hellhole and the ... well, when it goes back there, I know you'll make it better."

"Like you do with me, like just now."

Jack let out a small whiff of air as he came to a conclusion about their nightmares.

"No, I guess they'll never go away, Danny. We've seen too much and been through more than our share of ... torture, but, they'll never defeat us, never win, because ..."

"... we have each other," both said at the same time.

"Danny, about Winnie the Pooh ..."

"I love Winnie the Pooh, Jack, and I really did want a treehouse. Winnie's not a bad memory. I think he just, uh, acted as a catalyst. I really want our nursery to be Pooh."

"Okay, Pooh it is! Better now?"

Daniel thought and then slowly shook his head.

"No, not yet, but after you hold me a little while, and we talk some more, I will be."

"I love you, Daniel Jackson-O'Neill!"

Daniel perked up.

"Gawd, that still sounds like a dream. I'm glad we did that."

"Me, too! Now, let's eat our snacks and go cuddle."

"Cuddling is good."

"Cuddling is excellent."

The two chuckled and at the same time said, "Saps!"

====

"Jack O'Neill. I'm mighty surprised to see you, old buddy, but nice to know you're still alive."

"I need a favor, Tom, on the QT."

"No small talk, eh, Jack?"

"When did we ever chit chat?"

"Good point. That's probably why we were so successful on all those missions. Went in and did our jobs. No one said we had to be friends, did they?"

"No, they didn't."

Jack handed a piece of paper to his former colleague.

"Jed Gibson. What did he do to you?" the man asked Jack.

"No chit chat, remember. I want you to find him, and give me a detailed report on his life. Where he lives, what he's doing, any ... indiscretions."

"You must have contacts closer to home who could do this."

"On the QT, Tom. No trails."

"Okay, Jack. I'll get back to you." Jack turned and started to walk away. "Oh, Jack. We didn't discuss price."

"No, we didn't," Jack said as he turned again and walked away.

====

"Hi there, Beautiful," Jack said as he entered his house and saw Daniel stretched out on the sofa, Bijou on his stomach and Katie near his feet.

"Hi, Love," Daniel reached up with his hands to grasp Jack's as the older man sat on the on the edge of the sofa and leaned down to kiss Daniel. "Missed you! Where'd you disappear to?"

"Nowhere special. Just had some errands to run. Hey ragamuffin," Jack leaned down to rub his nose against Bijou's, "How ya doin'?"

"Ragamuffin?"

Jack shrugged and asked, "What's on the agenda for this lazy Saturday afternoon?"

"Hmmm, being lazy?"

"Sounds good!"

"Megan called."

"And?"

"She said 'yes' but she needs to give notice."

"That's great news. Oh, that reminds me, the letterhead and other supplies are due on Monday."

"I still can't believe I let you talk me into using the boonie bear."

Jack laughed with pride.

"It's a great gimmick, and you know it."

"In your dreams, Babe!"

Sensing her "owners" were about to get a bit too cozy for her comfort, Bijou jumped off Daniel's stomach and went over to her beanbag.

"Thank you, Bij," Jack acknowledged as he moved his right hand to reach under Daniel's white tee shirt.

"That feels so good," Daniel reacted to Jack's touch.

Jack kissed the middle of Daniel's stomach and then suddenly, he simply rested his head on his husband's chest.

"Hey," Daniel responded as he moved his hands to hold his lover. "Is something wrong?"

"No. I just decided I wanted to hear your heartbeat, like you do mine."

"It can be very reassuring."

"That it can, My Love."

====

"Jack, I think we bought out the store. This stuff is heavy."

"That's because we bought backups for the backups."

"We've really got to get over that. We're not military anymore, not that I ever was, of course."

"This is great stuff," Jack said as he deposited several bags full of items on the small bed that was in the nursery.

"Look at this mobile, Jack. Winnie, Tigger, Piglet, Eeyore. I love it, and I adore this crib set."

"Daniel, you adore all of it."

"So do you."

"True, but we probably should have held off until after that ... I hesitate to say the word ... baby shower Kayla is giving us."

"I know, but you can't have too much Pooh, so even if we get doubles, it'll be okay."

Jack burst into laughter.

"Okay, what's so funny?'

"Oh, I'm sure we'll have plenty of pooh to go around!"

"Jack, you're crazy!"

"But you love me." Jack grabbed Daniel and pulled him down onto the bed, then leaned both of them into a prone position with Daniel on the bottom. "Tell me."

"You're so demanding, Jack," Daniel said as he massaged the back of Jack's neck.

"Tell me."

"I love you more than life, forever and always. Just you. Only you."

"Music to my ears," Jack said just before they kissed and made love for the first time in the nursery, both men happy they had selected the three-quarter-size bed for the room.

====

"Goodnight, Daniel."

"You're sure you're okay?"

"Yes, I'm fine." Kayla laughed at the overprotectiveness of her friend. "Go to sleep, so I can go to sleep."

"Okay. Sweet dreams," Daniel said as he moved to lay on the sofa in Kayla's apartment.

Jack and Daniel were taking turns staying in Kayla's apartment. Neither were comfortable with the idea of the pregnant woman being alone this close to her giving birth. Though she still had weeks to go, Kayla hadn't argued when Jack and Daniel had suggested they stay with her. After all, she knew something they didn't ... she was carrying two babies, and a premature birth was possible. This was the fourth day of the "watch," and it was Daniel's turn to stay with Kayla.

The night was uneventful. Dressed in his gray sweatsuit, Daniel tried to sleep, but he was nervous, and if he had to be honest, sleeping without Jack was difficult. Every now and then, though, the Sandman captured him, but not for long.

At 6 a.m., the young man heard a gentle rapping on the front door. Rubbing his eyes, he rolled off the sofa and opened the door.

"Hi there," Jack grinned, as he moved inside the apartment, kissing Daniel softly and gently pushing Daniel backwards, all at the same time.

Daniel yawned after the kiss as he continued to back up. Jack reached back and closed the door and then put his arms around his husband. Daniel yawned again as he leaned his head against Jack's shoulder. It felt good, safe, warm. He smiled just as Jack kissed the top of his head.

"Not complaining," Daniel sighed, "but why are you here?"

"I missed you."

"Missed you, too. So much." Daniel ran his right hand along the side of Jack's neck and then down his chest. "Don't like being apart."

"Me, either, which is why I'm here. Couldn't sleep, so I made sure the girls were okay and came over to spend the morning with my Angel. Did you sleep?"

"A little, not much. I don't do well without my Jack pillow."

"Yeah, I know the feeling. Hard to get comfortable without my Danny blanket to keep me warm. Come on." Jack led Daniel over to the sofa. The two sat down, Daniel relaxing into Jack's embrace. "Close your eyes, Angel. I love you. Geez, I can't even sleep without you anymore. How sappy is that?"

"Sappy. Very sappy," Daniel mumbled, adjusting his body a little so that he turned more into his husband.

Jack smiled as he held the man who was his heart.

"Sleep, Angel. I'm here now."

Kayla quietly closed her bedroom door. She had heard some noises and had decided to see what was going on. As she lay back down on her bed, she rubbed her belly.

"You two are so lucky to have Jack and Daniel as your parents. They have so much love to give you. Always embrace that love and the family they are giving you. It won't always be easy, but you'll be protected and surrounded by the love your dads have for you. It'll get you through everything!"

Kayla closed her eyes and went back to sleep.

====

Two hours later, Kayla emerged from her room. Jack started to wake his husband, but Kayla silenced him with a shush and motioning of her hand. She went to her kitchen and returned with a glass of orange juice.

"He's so cute," she finally said as she sat in her lounger.

"Yes, he is," Jack said with pride, his right hand still caressing Daniel's back. "I hope you don't mind that I ..."

"Oh, not at all."

"You knew I was here?"

"I heard you, Jack."

"Sorry. I didn't mean to wake you, but I was ... lonesome," Jack admitted.

Kayla smiled and focused on the sleeping archaeologist.

"He's exhausted, and you knew he wouldn't sleep without you."

Jack saw Kayla's knowing expression.

"Yes, in part," Jack responded, "but it's equally true that I need this, this right here," Jack indicated Daniel's body, "to relax. I guess that seems strange."

"Why should it? You two love each other."

"There's a connection between us, Kayla, that's a little outside the norm. Being apart, it's not easy for either of us ... in a lot of ways. And Danny," Jack kissed his lover's forehead, "he's had so many tough times. Every time he thinks they're gone, something else happens. He's the strongest person I've ever known." Jack kissed the shaggy main of hair. "He can handle anything on his own. Beat it ... whatever it is ... but I won't let him face anything alone anymore, not if I can help it."

Kayla sensed something in Jack's tone that made her concerned.

"Something's happened since the wedding, hasn't it? And don't bother to deny it. He's tired, and I'm guessing that it's from more than just nervousness over the baby."

"Just an old memory."

Kayla studied Jack. The older man's hold on Daniel was tender, but strong ... protective. She saw the look in Jack's eyes -- there was love, respect, passion ... and fear.

"Jack, what are you afraid of?"

Jack looked up, briefly surprised at Kayla's question. He shrugged.

"I just don't want him to get hurt. He's the kindest soul in the universe. How could Ni ... how could anyone hurt someone like Danny so much and not even care? I just don't understand. I never have, and I never will."

"Can I ask you a question?"

Jack chuckled lightly, but tried to suppress it so he wouldn't wake his sleeping lover.

"I think by now, Kayla, you've earned the right to ask me just about anything."

"Daniel's diaries, and the reason he's writing them ... you aren't as disturbed by the things that bother him, are you?"

"To heck I'm not!" Jack answered strongly. "But I'm ... crustier." Jack chuckled lightly, and then became more serious. "Danny, he ... he cares about everyone. His heart ... it's this open book in a lot of ways. People make the mistake of thinking he's some wimp. They hurt him with their words. Kayla, I've got a reputation. They don't mess with me much unless they don't know me at all. So Daniel gets the brunt of the hatred and the jokes and the taunting. He always has. I wish I could protect him from all that, but I can't."

"Jack, has it ever ... gotten physical?"

"More than once. Not much here because we've had to hide, but on vacations or trips when we were open, a couple of times. Gawd, there was that one time, though. Oh, Danny," Jack said, remembering the attack on his husband that had occurred a few years before in the parking lot of a local mall.

Kayla watched Jack's hold tighten, and she saw his eyes moisten from the memory. She also saw a promise there ... that whatever had happened would never happen again.

"J'ck?"

"Hey, Beautiful!"

"Love you," Daniel raised his right arm to go around Jack's neck fully and leaned up to kiss the man he loved. "Hmm, want you," Daniel smiled seductively.

"Um, Daniel."

"Shhh! I'm on a mission," Daniel began to move his hand downward as he kissed Jack.

Jack knew he had to act quickly or Kayla would get an unanticipated show.

"Daniel, not a problem, Love, but, uh, you sure you want to do this in front of Kayla?"

"She's an adult," Daniel kissed Jack again and right in the middle of the kiss, Daniel's eyes grew wider than ever. "Oh, gawd," Daniel leaned his forehead against Jack, and then shifted to try and bury it in Jack's neck. "I'm so embarrassed ... again."

Jack laughed, as did Kayla.

"It's okay, Daniel. I'll be right back."

Kayla rose slowly, laughing at the difficulty she had getting up and headed for the bedroom.

"Is she gone?"

"Yes, it's safe now."

"Gawd, Jack. Why do I do that?"

"Because you love me?"

"Oh, yeah, that's it. That's definitely it!"

"Let's make sure the pagers are on and go home, Danny."

"Okay."

====

"What did you find out, Tom?" Jack asked a few days later.

"He's a twisted sort, Jack. Gives me the creeps."

"Explain."

"Can't."

"What?"

"There's no dirt, Jack, but he's bad. I can feel it; I just can't prove it."

"Did you talk to him?"

"No, but I watched him. His eyes ... not normal, Jack."

"Eyes?"

"He's the controlling type; gets upset when things don't go his way, and when things don't go his way, he gets angry, and when he gets angry, his eyes ... light up. It's crazy."

"Light up?" Jack asked with alarm, "Tom, be specific."

"They ... glow. I've never seen anything like it, and I don't want to again, Jack. Here," Tom handed over a small notebook, "it's all I know, and all I want to know."

Jack studied the papers and started to ask a question, "Tom, you said ..." but when he looked up, his one-time colleague was gone.

Jack cursed as he headed back for his truck.

====

"You know something? I don't miss the ladder," Daniel said as he sank down onto the roof deck to sit next to Jack, their shoulders touching per their tradition. "It's 4 a.m., Jack, and you promised to wake me up whenever you were going to do this!"

"I'm sorry, but ... Danny, that, uh ..." Jack stopped suddenly, not wanting to continue.

"Jack?"

Daniel took Jack's left hand in his, sensing this was nothing trivial.

"Danny, if I found out something, something that might mess up our plans just a tad, and I didn't say anything because I was trying to protect you and our future, and you found out about it later, you'd be angry, wouldn't you?"

"And disappointed."

"That's what I thought, and you would find out."

"Because you'd tell me ... eventually."

Jack looked at Daniel and saw complete, unequivocal trust. There was no doubt or hesitation. He nodded, "Yeah, I would."

Daniel didn't feel the need to pressure his lover. He knew Jack would come out with whatever the problem was when he was ready.

"Daniel, remember Seth?"

"Like I could forget?"

Jack tried to laugh, but he couldn't.

"What made you think about Seth?"

"Could there be others?"

"Goa'uld here on Earth?"

"Yes."

"I guess so."

Jack shifted, moving their hands so that he was holding Daniel's now. Daniel noticed the change. It signaled a shift in the caregiving. Jack was expecting to have to protect Daniel.

Jack was conflicted. It had been three days since he had discovered the truth, but he didn't like it, not one bit. He'd done more research, but at this point, he knew he had to involve Daniel ... and together, they'd go to the SGC. Jack knew that's how it would play out, but the timing was lousy. Their family was just around the corner. This was not the time to be battling the Goa'uld.

"Danny, your nightmare last week ..."

"You're reminding me about a nightmare?" Daniel asked surprised at Jack's words. "Why? And what does that have to do with Seth?"

"Think back, Danny."

"I don't want to think back, Jack."

Daniel stood and walked to the opposite wall, his arms folded tightly in front of him.

"Daniel, I need you to think about Jed Gibson, to visualize him."

"WHAT? Visualize him?" Daniel asked incredulously.

"Yes. Think, Danny."

"Honestly, Jack, sometimes I think you've lost your mind. What does Jed ... I mean he was just ... he ... he was," Daniel's look was faraway.

Jack saw the changes registering in Daniel's face -- shock, fear, hate, disbelief, and finally, recognition.

"He's ... gawd, he's a Goa'uld? How can that be? He was just ... seventeen, but he ... Jack ..." Jack jumped up and went to Daniel, his hands rubbing firmly against Daniel's upper arms. "Jack. It's surreal. It can't be. There has to be another explanation."

"Okay, give me one."

"I don't know." Daniel moved away, walking to the railing that faced their neighbor's home. "The Tok'ra did that census, Jack. Seth was the only System Lord unaccounted for."

"Yeah, but ... who says this Goa'uld is a System Lord?"

"Then why would he be here on Earth, and he would have had to have been here for as long as Seth. Jack," Daniel closed his eyes, "I need to do research. Gawd."

Daniel bowed his head. Quickly, Jack moved behind his lover and wrapped his arms around Daniel protectively, not around his waist, but around Daniel's arms and chest.

"It may never end, Danny. I guess we both should face that, but ... that doesn't mean we give up our life. Our family comes first, always."

"What are the odds, Jack?" Daniel asked as he leaned his head back against Jack's left shoulder. "How ironic is it that I would meet up with a Goa'uld as a child?"

"I don't do the math thing,"Jack said, starting to move his hands down.

"No, don't," Daniel said. "Keep me safe, Jack. Don't let me go tonight."

"I'll always keep you safe, and I'll never let you go."

"Jack, the Goa'uld ... they've never quite acted the way Jed did. It doesn't make sense."

"What are you thinking?"

"I'm not sure exactly. Maybe ... I don't know ... an off-shoot."

"A renegade Goa'uld?"

Daniel took a breath.

"Or something. Jack, we need to talk to Teal'c. He might know something."

"Now, or in the morning?"

"We could wait."

Jack chuckled nervously.

"Like either one of us is going to get any sleep."

"It's a good thing Kayla got us some help."

"I think she felt sorry for us."

"We have good friends, Jack. They're doing this for us."

"No arguments from me."

"Of course, it helps that Kayla is so nice. They like her, too."

"The truth is, Danny, it's all those things, and just that our friends are our friends."

"My genius," Daniel whispered. "Teal'c sleeps now."

"He won't mind. Let's go dust off the security keys; see if they still work."

"He might be at his apartment. Gawd, we don't even know where to find him."

"Actually, I ... anticipated."

Daniel looked at Jack, the question in his eyes.

"I thought we might need him so I called him a couple of days ago, just to ... chat. He should be at the SGC."

"That means he probably has a mission tomorrow. We shouldn't disturb him."

"He'd be upset if we didn't ask him for help when we needed it."

"I guess you're right."

====

"What do you know? It still works," Jack boasted as he swiped his security card through the first gate.

"You make it sound like we haven't been here for months. It's only been a few weeks."

"Considering we practically lived here for a decade, a few weeks seems a lot longer."

A few minutes later, they knocked on the door to Teal'c's quarters.

"Enter."

"Hey, Big Guy!"

"O'Neill. DanielJackson."

"I hope we aren't disturbing you, Teal'c, but Jack and I need to ask you some questions." The three sat, each quiet at first, until Jack nudged Daniel's arm. "Teal'c, have you ever heard of any, I don't know, renegade Goa'uld?"

"Renegade?"

"Sort of someone who might have gone out on their own, broken away from the main group," Daniel explained.

"Like Seth, Teal'c, but not a System Lord," Jack added.

"There is a story about a small band of Goa'uld that once tried to overtake the System Lords. They were defeated and killed, but a few were able to escape. It is believed the story is a myth."

"How long ago would that have been?"

"Before the time of Seth. It is an old story."

"Teal'c," Daniel asked, "Seth had a cult. Wouldn't any Goa'uld stand out? I mean, the Goa'uld we know all seek power."

"The story says that the rebel Goa'uld did indeed seek the power of the System Lords, but they did not need or want to stand out as the System Lords do. They wanted to control, from a distance."

"I don't get it."

"They want prestige, Jack, but not accolades. They figured they could do more if they acted quietly. Special Ops. Covert," Daniel spoke softly.

"So ... that means ..."

"It means there could be more Goa'uld here on Earth. Jack, some of the worst leaders, murderers, instigators of horrors in our history could have been Goa'uld."

"That is an interesting idea, DanielJackson. The myth would support the idea of infiltration."

"Infiltration," Daniel repeated softly. "Yes. That fits. They don't seek a dominating power, just a private one."

"But people die, Daniel," Jack argued.

"If it's covert, then when the human body would obviously have died ..."

"... the symbiote would transfer, quietly, and take over a new host," Teal'c added.

"And start a new reign of terror. Sweet," Jack lamented. "But Daniel, doesn't having a symbiote keep the host young?"

"If they have a sarcophagus."

"It is also possible these Goa'uld allow their hosts to age," Teal'c said.

"It would stand out if they didn't. I mean, if they never aged, they'd have to change host constantly,so, uh, they'd have to make sure the host aged normally," Daniel added.

"Okay," Jack said, "These Goa'uld infiltrate on a small scale; power mongers."

"Exactly, and sometimes they might try and extend their power over a city or nation or even a part of the world. Or maybe just ..."

"Maybe just a sick teenager who was never really a teenager," Jack looked at his husband intently.

"Right. Jack, I need my office. I mean, the computers. I have to check out Jed's history."

"May I be of assistance?"

"Definitely, Teal'c," Jack spoke. "I'm afraid SG-1 may be back in business for one more mission. Let's go round up a computer for Daniel."

"Your office is still intact, DanielJackson."

"I am NOT coming back, but right now, I'm glad it's there. Teal'c, what about your mission tomorrow?"

"It has been postponed."

"It has? When did that happen?"

"When O'Neill phoned me yesterday." The Jaffa saw the surprised look on Jack's face. "You do not call to chat about my sleeping habits, O'Neill, especially about where I will be sleeping. It was obvious you would be in need of my advice."

"Always am, T. Thank you."

====

"Are you sure about this, Jack?" General Hammond asked.

"Yes, Sir, we are," Daniel answered, glancing at his husband.

"I hate to think what this could mean. If you're right about this Jed, then there could be more."

"Alot more, General," Daniel stated.

"Okay, Jack. Bring him in."

Jack and Daniel exchanged a look.

"We need Carter, Sir."

"I believe she's in her lab," Hammond responded.

"Her lab?" Daniel asked.

He was surprised, considering it was very early in the morning, and their friend had finally gotten a life outside of the SGC.

"When Teal'c informed me of his ... hunch, I notified Colonel Carter to be on standby. She has been ... in her lab. SG-1, you have a go. Good luck."

"Gawd," Daniel said as he exhaled at the same time, "Never thought I'd hear those words again." Seeing Jack's concern, he smiled and said, "Don't worry, I'm fine."

"Webster's definition or ..."

"Webster's," Daniel answered. "Let's go find Sam and fill her in, and go kick some Goa'uld butt!"

Jack smiled at his heart, his Daniel. They'd get through this, and then they'd have their baby. Nothing would interfere with their family. Jack wouldn't let it.

====

"Nice house," Sam said as SG-1 studied the large home of Jed Gibson.

Jed lived in Cape Elizabeth, an affluent coastal suburb of Maine. The house was a two-story structure located right off the beach.

"Teal'c, just to double check," Jack stated, "this Goa'uld does not want to go back through the Stargate, right?"

"The Goa'uld would be killed instantly by the System Lords."

"Which means ..." Jack looked to Daniel, "You gonna be okay with this?"

"It's a Goa'uld. Let's go."

"Right," Jack said skeptically, wondering how they'd gone from fussing over diapers to killing Goa'uld in a span of hours.

Dressed in black BDUs and armed with firepower that included P-90's and zat guns, the team moved towards the house. It was 3 a.m. The plan was to take the Goa'uld by surprise, learn what they could, if anything, about other Goa'ulds still on Earth, and then bring the Goa'uld back to the SGC.

Jack knew it wouldn't go down that way. The Goa'uld wouldn't give itself up, and it would fight. They'd have to kill the parasite ... and the host.

Sam deactivated the house alarm. Teal'c remained outside the home, standing guard. Inside, the rest of SG-1 checked out the lower level until they were satisfied no one was there. Jack nodded at Sam who remained at the foot of the stairs, prepared to provide backup to any of her teammates in need.

Jack and Daniel headed carefully up the stairs with Jack in the lead. They believed Jed would be in the last room down the long hallway. Carefully, they checked out the other rooms as they moved forward toward their destination, finding each of the rooms to be empty. With a nod to Daniel, Jack opened the door to the master bedroom.

He moved to the full-size bed and saw a body lying under the covers, totally still. For a moment, Jack considered ending it there with one quick shot. It would spare his lover the agony of having to face Jed Gibson, but he couldn't do it. Daniel wouldn't want it to go down that way, so Jack went with the plan.

Daniel stood inside the doorway on the other side of the bed.

"Wakey, wakey," Jack said, pressing his gun into the head of Jed Gibson, who was sleeping on his back.

"What the ... Who are you? What do you want?"

"You ... whoever you are."

"Look, you're making a big mistake toying with me," Jed warned as he started to get up.

At the same time, Daniel, still holding his gun outstretched, walked over near Jack. He stared at the man, now almost fifty years old, looking for recognition.

"You can stay right there," Jack said, poking his weapon against Jed's chest.

"You don't know who you're playing with here. Get out of my house before I call the cops."

"You do realize we have weapons aimed at you?" Jack pointed out.

"What do you want?"

"We want to know who you really are," Daniel spoke without emotion.

"Jed Gibson, and frankly, I don't care who you are, but I want you OUT now!"

"Brave words," Jack said, "But we're running this show."

"Do your best," Jed dared, his eyes glowing.

Jack smiled wickedly.

"What? You thought we'd run. A little glowing eye action and we'd be scared of little old you? I don't think so."

"You killed her," Daniel said suddenly.

Jed looked at Daniel, boring through his eyes.

"Do I know you?"

"No, you never knew me, but I know you, and I know what you did."

Jack didn't like the look on Jed's face.

"Okay, here's the deal. You tell us now who you are, what you are doing on Earth, and where your pals are, and we let you live. Play dumb, and you die now."

Jed smiled an evil look, ignoring Jack's threat, staring at Daniel and finally asking, "Where have we met?"

"You killed her. She was just a little girl. A sweet little girl. Why?"

"Daniel. Let it go," Jack ordered.

Jed repeated, "Daniel?" He looked at the young man again, an intense expression on his face. "Yes, I see now. Well, look who grew up. Pretty, even, but I have no time for this game."

Suddenly, Jed lunged towards Jack who managed to get a shot off, a bullet entering Jed's ribcage. Sam and Teal'c ran up the stairs.

"Let him go," Daniel ordered calmly, his gun aimed at Jed's head.

"I remember you," Jed said, as he held Jack in a stranglehold. "You were that wimpy kid. Pretty boy. Still pretty."

"Let the General go," Sam instructed from the doorway.

"I will kill him," Jed threatened, tightening his hold which caused Jack to flinch.

For one brief second, Daniel closed his eyes, and when he opened them, he saw Jed's wicked smile.

"When did you take Jed as a host?"

"What does it matter?"

"I just want to know."

"No concern for your friend here?"

"He can take care of himself."

Sam looked at Daniel, a bit confused at his conversation, but she noticed he hadn't lowered his gun and that his grip on the Beretta was firm. From her position, a hit would be difficult, but Daniel's angle was perfect.

"You were always curious, even as a child. Your eyes asked many questions, though they were seldom voiced."

"You killed her," Daniel repeated.

"She was a toy."

"She was a little girl."

Sam stared at Daniel, having no clue who or what was being discussed.

"Lay down your weapons, or I will kill him now."

"Daniel ..." Sam spoke intently, "I think maybe ..."

Daniel interrupted his friend, focusing still on Jed.

"You didn't answer the question. When did you take over Jed's body?"

"I will kill him."

The eyes glowed again, and Daniel saw nothing but pure evil, an evil consumed by hatred and everything self-serving. He would not get his questions answered; he knew that now.

"No, you won't." Jack gasped as Jed's hold began to suck the air out of him. "No, you won't," Daniel repeated, firing a single shot that went straight through Jed's head. "Jack, move!"

Jack lunged forward, and as he did, both Daniel and Sam fired rounds into Jed's body. Then, Teal'c aimed the zat gun at him and fired three times. Jed and the Goa'uld were gone forever.

"Jack!" Daniel went to his husband's side. "Are you okay?"

"Are you?"

Jack rubbed his neck with his hands.

"I'm fine."

"Webster's or old days."

"Old days," Daniel said, looking at Sam. "We need to get out of here."

====

"I'm sorry, Sir. He wasn't talking, and I don't think he would have."

"So we really don't know if there are others out there?" the Major General asked.

"No, we don't," Daniel answered, "but I would guess there are."

The debriefing ended, and Sam and Teal'c had left the room.

"Jack," the General asked, "I don't suppose ..."

"No," Daniel answered on Jack's behalf.

Jack smiled at the interception of the predictable question. He added, "No, Sir. We're having a baby."

After some chit chat, Jack and Daniel walked to the locker room and changed back into their street clothes. Neither spoke. They left the SGC, still in silence.

"Jack, let's ..."

"Way ahead of you, Love," Jack said, heading the truck not for their home but their private paradise beyond Cheyenne Mountain in Pike's Peak.

When they arrived, they walked in silence, holding hands. Their hold was firm as they made their way to the vista that held a special place in their hearts. When they got there, they stood looking down over the city, and finally, they faced each other, looking into each other's eyes.

"I wonder if Jed ever really had a chance to live."

"I don't know, but it's unusual for a Goa'uld to take over someone so young ... isn't it?"

Daniel shrugged.

"Jack, we keep making the same mistake." Jack looked puzzled as he listened. "We keep thinking we know all the answers, or that we know everything, but we don't. And we assume that Teal'c and the Jaffa we know are, well, in a sense, all-knowing about the Goa'uld, but Jack, this Goa'uld proved that we only know about one part of the universe. We don't know what happened to those other renegade Goa'uld. There could be other factions, all around us."

Jack nodded, adding, "We've never seen any Goa'uld act like Jed did."

"Exactly."

There was a pause as both became aware of how little they really knew about the powerful enemy of the Tau'ri. However, Jack decided it was time to get back to their world. The two had done all they could, and now they had a more pressing priority to take care of. Jack closed the tiny gap that had been between the two, and he put his arms around Daniel's waist.

Daniel put his hands on Jack's upper arms, and then slowly, as if giving in to emotion, his hands moved up to Jack's neck as he leaned into his husband, his chin pressed against Jack's left shoulder. Jack's hands ran soothingly up and down Daniel's back.

"You saved my life, Danny."

"He didn't have a chance. No one will take you away from me."

"I don't think Carter knew you were that good of a shot."

"She probably thinks I got lucky."

"You had the perfect shot, and you took it. I'm proud of you, but ..."

"I'm okay, Jack. I've done worse. Jed was a Goa'uld, and he was trying to kill you. I didn't have a choice. Poor Carrie. She never had a chance."

"It went down as an unsolved murder so at least no one was hurt."

"Jack, let's go home and play with our girls for awhile, and then let's call Kayla and see if we can come over for a quick visit."

"Sounds good. A healthy dose of everyday life."

"General Hammond wants us to come back."

"Sorry, we're booked," Jack said as he moved in to kiss his lover.

"Booked forever and always," Daniel said, returning the kiss with a growing need and passion.

"Danny, how about we play with the girls and then ..."

"... and then," Daniel's right hand slipped inside Jack's white shirt, caressing, and then he moved forward and placed a kiss at the side of Jack's neck, "we ... you know."

"Yeah, lots and lots of ... you know."

"Hmm, lots," Daniel whispered as the two connected for another round of sensual lip-lock.

"Danny? I have another idea."

"Oh, yes," Daniel said, pulling Jack to the ground where the two made love in the open meadow, rearranging the order of their day yet again.

====

"Mmm ... love you so much, Jack," Daniel said as the two stood beside Jack's truck as they prepared to go back to their home.

"You know something?"

"What?"

"I remember a time when you couldn't say that until I said it first."

"I was scared."

"I know. I'll always remember the first time you said it first. Geez, Danny, I thought I'd explode from how good that made me feel, that finally, you trusted me enough."

"It wasn't trust. I've always trusted you. You know that. It was just that defense mechanism of mine. It wouldn't let me trust myself. I didn't think I was ... I mean, why would you want me? I couldn't imagine why."

"My Angel," Jack kissed his lover again. "You know now though ... why I love you so much ... right?"

"I know now that you love me. I know that without reservation. There's nothing to be afraid of anymore, because even if I don't always believe in myself, Jack, I do believe in us."

"I love you, Danny."

"Let's go home."

Once again renewed in their nation of two, Jack and Daniel returned to their home where they finished out their day playing with Bijou and Katie and then had dinner with Kayla. The night shift for staying with the pregnant woman belonged to Janet, so Jack and Daniel had gone home and spent quality cuddling time together.

"Quality cuddling time ... geez, Jack!"

"Hey, it's true, Love. When our baby comes, we aren't going to have much time for this for a while."

"I like quality cuddling time. It's the next best thing to ... you know."

"Danny?"

"Hmm?"

"You get to teach our children about the facts of life."

Daniel sat straight up, panicked. Jack broke out into laughter, and pulled Daniel back to him.

"Relax, Angel. You have a few years."

"Gawd! I'll just die!"

"I'll help," Jack said softly as Daniel's breathing seemed to become more even ... briefly.

"Maybe we can get Sam to do it. I mean, if our baby is a girl ... or ... or ... or Sara."

"Daniel, relax. We'll get through it." Daniel settled back into Jack's hold and started to laugh lightly. "What?"

"Jack, I'm more panicked about telling our daughter about sex than I've ever been about facing down the Goa'uld."

"It is kind of funny."

"We have to protect our children."

"We will," Jack assured as his hands slipped just inside Daniel's pants.

"Hey there, General. Are you trying to get fresh with me?"

"You have objections?"

"I thought we agreed to do quality cuddling?"

"We did, and we have been. We are."

"But we won't be if your hands keeps moving in that direction."

"Okay, spoil sport," Jack said, removing his hands and returning to full time cuddling.

"Okay, that's enough cuddling. Get back to the seduction," Daniel spoke after a minute.

"Seduction? I was not seducing you."

"Okay, I'll seduce you."

"Let's seduce each other."

"Hmm ... bubble bath."

"And a massage."

"Oh, yeah."

"Love you, Angel. Can't ever get enough of you."

"That's exactly how I like it," Daniel smiled as he led Jack up to their master bedroom.

====

A week later, Jack and Daniel had settled back into their routine. Jack had been pleased that Daniel hadn't had more nightmares about Jed and Carrie. Daniel had actually told Jack that he felt a sense of closure over it now. Tragically, the fact that Jed had been taken over by the Goa'uld gave Daniel an understanding of why it had happened, something he hadn't had before. Daniel would never forget the little girl, but she wouldn't haunt him anymore.

The two were happy, but nervous about the upcoming birth. Sylvia continued to assure them everything was going well, and that Kayla was terrific, but still, this was their baby, and the two were anxious.

"Why don't you two come over for dessert tonight? It's Sam's night to babysit me. It'll be fun," Kayla suggested.

"She's not babysitting you," Daniel said nervously over the phone.

Kayla laughed, knowing the truth.

"It's all right; it's actually comforting to know someone's around all the time. Dessert at eight?"

"Sure."

====

"Someone must be having a party," Jack said as he searched for a parking space in Kayla's complex.

"Probably," Daniel agreed. "By the way, Babe, did I mention how sexy you look tonight?"

"No. Thank you, Love. You look gorgeous yourself, but then you always do."

Finally finding a space, the two headed for Kayla's floor. Standing in front of the door, Jack was about to knock when Daniel stopped him and leaned in for a passionate kiss.

"I've been wanting to do that for ... minutes and minutes," he laughed.

"Now is so not the time to start this," Jack smiled, "especially when you look good enough to eat."

"Just wait until I get you home," Daniel whispered.

"My, my Doctor Jackson-O'Neill, how you've changed. What happened to that quiet, shy geek I met all those years ago?"

"He fell in love with someone who loves him back."

"And that is the truth!" Jack said with certainty.

After another kiss, Jack knocked on the door.

"Come on in!" Kayla called out from inside.

Jack opened the door, and the two walked in.

"Hey, it's dark in here," Jack said.

"Turn on the lights!" Kayla shouted.

Daniel flipped the switch and ...

"SURPRISE!"

Laughter at the stunned expressions on Jack's and Daniel's faces filled the room. Their friends had promised them a baby shower in a few weeks, but it seemed that had been a front for the surprise shower happening ... now.

Totally floored, Jack and Daniel were led like lambs to the slaughter to a few hours of baby shower fun. They took comfort, however, that they weren't the only men there to "suffer" as Jack called it. Carolyn had dragged Lou along, Margaret had blackmailed Jeff into attending, and Sam had made sure that Teal'c aka: Murray was there, too. Jack raised an eyebrow when he saw that Cassie had somehow finagled Dominic into coming.

"Danny, Dominic is here," Jack whispered.

"Well, uh, what's wrong with that?"

"Danny, it's a baby shower. Cassie brought Dominic to a baby shower."

"Um, Jack, I guess I'm missing the point?"

"Daniel, if we weren't having a baby, and we weren't here because Teal'c played a practical joke on us, would you ever imagine yourself going to a baby shower?"

"Well, I ..." Daniel looked protectively at the young woman being discussed. "She's not a child anymore, Jack."

"EXACTLY my point! What do you think she did to get him here?"

"Jack," Daniel turned his body around to face his lover, putting both hands on his arms, "trust me, you don't want to know."

Daniel smiled and turned back towards the group, making a mental note, however, to quietly check on Cassie's "bait" that she had used on her boyfriend. He looked around for their host, wanting to check on her. Seeing her about to get a drink, Daniel approached.

"Kayla, how are you feeling today?"

"Pretty much the same these days, Daniel. My back is aching a little more today than usual, but I think it was all the preparation for the shower."

"Please tell me you didn't do this all on your own."

"Of course not," she said, laughter in her tone. "Still, I get tired at the drop of a hat. It's not easy carrying a baby." Seeing Daniel's thoughtful expression, she teased, "You should try it sometime."

"Uh ... well, I ..."

Kayla laughed. She remembered Daniel telling her about the empathy bellies. It hadn't been easy, especially going to the bathroom and getting up and down.

He's so cute. Look at him, all flustered. No wonder Jack fell in love with him. Oh, he's getting serious about something.

"You know something crazy, Kayla?"

"What?"

"If I could ... I think I would."

"Oh, Daniel. You're so sweet," she said as the two hugged before being pulled away for the start of one of many party games.

====

"Don't worry, guys, I'll make sure she sleeps in," Sam reassured them as the party concluded.

"Go on! Get out of here!" Kayla insisted.

"Night!" Daniel said as he and Jack headed out of the apartment, loaded with gifts.

Ahead of them were several friends who had volunteered to take a cart load of treasures over to the house.

"Jack, I think someone messed up."

"The second crib?"

"Yeah."

"Not everyone was at the wedding, so they didn't all know."

"But Cassie said that everyone chipped in, remember? Jack, everyone who was here participated. She showed us the list."

"Well, they know we're having a second baby. If Kayla gets pregnant again right away, the first one could still be in the crib when the second is born."

"That makes sense. Sam and Janet would have thought of that, and they both know what we're planning, time wise, but where are we going to put all this stuff?"

"The garage for now. We'll figure it out."

====

"Thanks for the help, fellas! We appreciate it!" Jack said as he closed the door when the last of the volunteers left for their own homes.

"That was the craziest three hours of my life." Daniel laughed. "I don't think I'll ever get that image of Teal'c pinning a little pink dress to a clothesline while wearing a lilac apron, holding a doll, and talking on the cordless phone out of my head. Gawd, I thought I was going to die when he put that clothes pin in his mouth."

Jack laughed as he put his right arm around Daniel's waist and led him towards the stairs.

"It was something. I think we need to send Teal'c to baby boot camp before he gets near our baby."

Daniel chuckled, leaning his head against Jack's shoulder.

"I could have lived without the pacifier game, though."

"Hey, that was my favorite!"

"Why am I not surprised? I would be within my rights to kill you, Jack. No court in America would convict me."

Jack turned to face Daniel, running his hands lovingly along the younger man's chest.

"Oh yeah? Not my fault you said the word 'baby' first."

"Sam didn't explain the rules completely," Daniel pouted.

"WHOA there, Dannyboy. Are you actually saying that Carter, the queen of explanations and prattlization, DIDN'T explain something in detail?"

"Jack, in the first place, there's no such word as prattlization, and in the second place, yes," Daniel answered, his lower lip buckling, causing Jack to laugh.

"You looked so cute," Jack said putting his hands on Daniel's waist, caressing as they stood facing each other.

"I was not cute. I looked ridiculous. Gawd, for thirty minutes. Thirty minutes, Jack. You're supposed to protect me," Daniel said, putting both arms around Jack's neck.

"I'll always protect you, Angel ... except from pacifiers!"

"You never said it."

"What?"

"Baby. Everyone else got caught but you."

"I won the game!"

"Say it."

"Oh, no. I don't trust you."

Jack started to pull away, but Daniel didn't let go, and in fact, moved so that their bodies were pressed against each other completely.

"Say it, Jack."

Jack wanted whatever Daniel was about to offer, so he eagerly said the word ... "Baby."

Daniel smiled and inserted his version of a pacifier into Jack's mouth, and for several minutes, Daniel's tongue silenced Jack's voice, pleasing both men.

Then they leaned their foreheads together, a symbol of their unity, and both sighed contently.

"Not all the games were silly. Some of the activities were actually very nice."

"Yeah, I have to admit I liked that baby book thing," Jack said.

"Because it makes it personal."

"Yeah. Just think, Danny, we can show our baby their special collection of books and tell them they were given to them by their friends, and each one has a special message. Did you read some of them, Angel? They were ... pretty special."

"I know. I just read a few. Cassie's ... gawd, Jack, did you see what she wrote to our baby?"

"... that if she could have picked a father, she'd pick us, that she thinks of us that way. Yeah, that meant a lot. Which reminds me, I did talk to Dominic."

"Jack, you didn't threaten him, did you?"

"Threaten? Dominic? Of course not. I just reminded him of Cassie's virtue and indicated it had better not be touched until she's wearing a wedding ring!"

"Jack, you didn't! I mean, she's a woman now."

"Where'd the years go? She was just eleven when we found her."

"She's special, and she's all grown up, Jack. I have a hunch she and Dominic ..."

"Don't say it, Daniel. I don't want to hear it."

Daniel laughed and then hesitantly said, "I, uh, said something to him, too."

"Danny, did you?"

Nodding, Daniel responded, "I sort of told him that we loved her and then, uh, um, well, I ..."

"What did you say?"

"I told him that Teal'c was becoming concerned, and that he was talking about putting Dominic through a Jaffa ritual to make sure he was pure of heart and honest and RESPECTFUL, emphasis on the respectful part, and that if he wasn't, well ... I sort of suggested that a certain body part would be ... at risk."

"Daniel Jackson-O'Neill, you are joking? Aren't you?"

Daniel grinned and shook his head.

"It's her life, Jack, and she's a woman, but I still feel protective of her, and I really just wanted him to know that."

The two smiled and then Jack took a big breath.

"I'm exhausted, Love. How about a quick shower and then quality sleep time?"

"Works for me," Daniel answered. As they took a few steps up the stairs, the phone rang. "I'll get it, Babe," Daniel turned and headed to the kitchen counter where the cordless phone rested. "Hello ... Hey, Sam ..."

Jack had been waiting at the bottom of the stairs. He had heard Daniel's greeting, but now, his husband was just standing there, looking like a guppy.

"Danny, what does Carter want?"

Daniel looked almost catatonic as Jack approached him.

"Danny?" Jack waved his hand in front of Daniel's eyes and finally the young man blinked. "Daniel?"

Jack urgently grabbed the phone.

"Carter? What's going on?" Jack looked over at his husband and smiled in understanding. "Plan B, Colonel," Jack ordered, hanging up the phone.

The retired General walked to the door.

"Bijou! Katie! Outside girls. Don't look at me like that. We're having a baby! Move it!"

"Woof!" went Bijou, nudging her sleepy puppy from her spot and then following her outside. "Woof! Woof!" Bijou's tail wagged.

"Yeah, exciting! Love you both. We'll be home soon."

Jack locked the door and then put on his jacket. He walked over to Daniel who still hadn't moved. He chuckled as he slipped on Daniel's coat.

"Help me out here a little, will ya?" Jack requested. He zipped up the jacket and gazed into Daniel's eyes, "You are breathing, aren't you, Danny? Come on, Love. Breathe. Yeah, there we go," Jack said as he cupped Daniel's face. "I love you, Angel, so friggin' much. Our baby is about to enter the world. Geez, I wish I could tell you how wonderful that makes me feel."

"J'ck?" Daniel finally managed to croak out. "Ho ... hol ... hold me?"

Jack smiled as he embraced his love.

"It's going to be perfect. Carter knows what to do. You ready, Danny? Ready to go welcome our baby into our lives?" Daniel nodded but didn't move, so Jack held on to him for a moment longer. He kissed Daniel's neck and then his lips before he backed off a bit. "Kayla needs us. We need to go."

"I love you, Jack, but I'm not sure I remember how to breathe."

"I'll remind you if you forget."

"CPR?"

"The fun kind. Come on." Once in the truck, Jack handed his cell phone to Daniel. "Plan B, Danny."

"Jack?" Daniel looked at his husband a bit hesitantly. "It's too soon. Our baby is going to be premature."

"Danny, Syl's been watching Kayla like a hawk, and everything's been fine. A lot of babies are born early, especially first ones."

"I thought first babies were late."

"Maybe it depends on the baby. Daniel, it's okay. We're having a baby. Relax."

"Are you crazy? I can't even br...br...breathe, and you ... you want me to relax?"

Jack had to smile, but then he spoke reassuringly to his spouse.

"I love you, Angel. Our baby is healthy. I'm positive. Now, Plan B, Love."

Daniel took a cautious breath, and then dialed Sylvia to make sure Sam had reached her.

"Sounds like the real deal, Daniel. She's gonna pop," Sylvia teased.

"Pop?" Daniel nodded, repeating Sylvia's word.

"Daniel, Jack is with you, isn't he?"

"Jack?"

Jack chuckled, grabbed the phone, and said, "He's fine, Syl, or he will be. Just a bit in shock. What's the scoop? ... yeah ... okay ... you sure? ... no, I understand ... we're about thirty minutes away ... right ... Oh, Syl, wait ... Daniel's concerned the labor is early and ... that's what I told him ... Thanks, Syl!"

"Daniel, call the troops! Syl thinks it's the real deal, and by the way, she says everything is fine, and not to worry about the early labor pains, okay?"

"Pop," Daniel said. "Don't worry ... ppppop."

"Huh?"

"She's gonna pop."

Jack thought for a minute, engaging his Danieleze translator guide.

"Oh, Syl said that, didn't she?" Daniel nodded. "Danny, Love ... the phone calls."

"Oh gawd. Where's my brain?"

Jack reached over and took Daniel's hand. Carefully, he leaned over just a tad to press it.

"It's okay. You're just in shock a little. Been there, done that."

"I bet you weren't like this when Charlie was born."

"Of course not. I just put on my best Captain exterior. You'll be fine. The phone calls will help," Jack said as he released Daniel's hand to focus more on his driving.

Daniel took a breath and then phoned their very close circle of friends, all of whom had requested to be contacted so they could go to hospital for the birth. Lou and Carolyn, Jeff and Margaret, General Hammond, Janet and Cassie, Teal'c, and Mrs. Valissi were all thrilled at the news, each promising to join the couple as soon as they could get there.

"Jack, it's funny isn't it?"

"What is?"

"All these phone calls. We've always been so private, so, uh, guarded with our lives, and here we are, at ... gawd, what is one of the most intimate and private moments and, um, we just called a bunch of people to come and share it with us."

"Danny, if you don't want them there, tell me. I'll call them back."

"That's the thing, Jack. It's what I don't understand."

Jack shook his head as he drove.

"I don't know what you mean, Love."

"I want them there. I don't understand that."

Jack smiled, full of understanding.

"Maybe it's because those people have cared about us, supported us, been ... family to us for a long time."

"Still ..."

"Yeah, I know what you mean, but be sure, Danny. This is our moment. We've waited for this for a long time. There's no rule that says we need to share this experience."

Daniel thought about Jack's words as he looked out the window.

"You're wrong, Babe. There is a rule. It's the rule of love. Loving means sharing. Gawd, Jack, how long did it take you to teach me that?"

"Daniel, you've shared plenty."

"No, that's not what I mean. You taught me about trust and family. Jack," Daniel struggled to find his words, "I lived my life as a loner for so long. I was shut off from everyone. No one cared about me, and I ... I had no one to care about, not really. Sarah ... Sha're ... that's all. I like our world. I, uh, I mean, we don't need anyone else, but you know, still, it's nice to have people to care about that for once I know really do care about me ... about us, too."

At a stop light, Jack reached over and took Daniel's hand, squeezing it tenderly.

"You'll never be alone again. You're stuck with me forever and always."

"And those people, they are our family, too. I want them there. Do you?"

A grin took over Jack's face as he answered, "Yeah, I do. It's not so strange, Danny, for families to share these big moments. It doesn't mean we've lost our privacy or even our need for it. It just means we've ..."

"It just means we have family we love and sometimes, we need," Daniel paused, "and want them around."

"Like now."

"Like now," Daniel agreed as he smiled.

====

As per Sylvia's instructions, Sam was taking Kayla to the hospital. Sylvia had told Sam that she felt Jack and Daniel lived a bit too far away from Kayla for her comfort. As they drove, Sam had to ask a question.

"Kayla, you practically insisted that we get the General and Daniel a second crib. Why?"

"I told you," Kayla smiled a bit evasively, "they like backups, and they want a second baby."

Sam looked at her and laughed.

"Come on, Kayla. Tell me the truth."

"Twins! Oh gawd, it's twins!"

"You're kidding!"

Kayla shook her head in response.

"We've known for months, but ..."

"They don't know?"

"They didn't want to. Sylvia and I have both tried to tell them, but they say they want the complete birth to be a ... OH MY ... OW ... surprise!"

"It'll be a surprise all right. How are you doing?"

"Drive, Sam. Just ... drive!"

====

"Jack, Daniel ... are you two ready for this?" Sylvia asked with a grin.

"Always ready, Syl," Jack answered.

"Let's go on in. I'd like you to meet someone before we get too far along."

"Hey guys," Kayla greeted her friends, seeing them enter.

She smiled just as she let out a painful cry at the latest contraction.

"Hi, Kayla."

Daniel suddenly came to life, going to her, and holding her hand in support. He immediately noticed the fetal monitor she was hooked up to. Jack went to stand behind Daniel.

"Thank you isn't what you want the most right now, Kayla, but thank you."

"You're right, Jack, but you're welcome anyway."

"Daniel, Syl says that backache I had today was probably back labor. Do you believe? Labor ... in my back!"

"Right now, I'll believe almost anything. Did you practice your breathing today?"

Kayla glanced at Sylvia who purposefully interrupted the conversation.

"Guys, she's about eight to nine centimeters dialated. I don't think it's going to be all that long. Uh, Jack O'Neill, Daniel Jackson, I'd like you to meet Doctor Kolar. She's a pediatrician and will be .. assisting."

"Assisting? Is there a problem?" Jack asked.

"No, not a one," Sylvia answered.

Jack's sixth sense was telling him something wasn't quite right, but he knew Sylvia wouldn't lie to them, and he didn't want to upset Daniel or Kayla, so he put his suspicions on the back burner.

"Syl, thanks in advance for being here for the duration. I know it's not really normal these days."

"I wouldn't dream of letting you two go through this alone."

It was 11:30 p.m. as the happy, but nervous couple watched Sylvia and the nursing staff prepare for the impending birth.

"Everything looks good. I do see it looks like one, um, it looks like a membrane has ruptured during a contraction, but that's okay. No problem. Let's give Kayla the epidural."

"What happened to all that Lamaze training?" Jack asked.

"Slight change in plans, Jack," Sylvia smiled, "but you can still be supportive."

Jack tilted his head slightly, not sure what to make of that, and Daniel was too busy talking to Kayla, trying to be calming and reassuring to have let the change in their plans sink in. He was just doing what he was asked to do as time passed.

It was an hour later, when Kayla insisted she needed to push.

"Honest, Syl...Sylvia. I need to ... oh ... I really need to push."

Sylvia examined Kayla.

"I think you're right, Kayla. You're fully dilated - ten centimeters - and effaced. This is it, folks. Here we go! Push!"

Jack and Daniel looked at each other, their eyes meeting in a silent union that spoke of a universe of love they felt for each other and the life that was about to be born.

"Push, Kayla!" Sylvia ordered.

Daniel was still holding Kayla's hand, and Jack was holding onto Daniel, his arms around Daniel's waist. Both were looking at Sylvia, watching and waiting to see their child make his or her first appearance.

"Jack ... gawd."

Daniel lay his head back on Jack's shoulder for a minute.

"I love you, Danny," Jack whispered as they waited.

"Love you so much, Jack," Daniel answered softly, knowing at any moment their baby would breathe its first breath.

"Here we go. Head."

Moisture begin to fill Daniel's eyes, and without doing it intentionally, Jack's hold on Daniel tightened.

"Wah!"

"It's a boy," Sylvia pronounced as she delivered the baby. "Okay, Baby A, welcome to the world." She looked over at the two fathers and asked, "One of you two want to cut the cord?"

Normally, Sylvia wouldn't have been in such a hurry, but this wasn't a normal situation.

"Go on, Love."

"Jack?"

"Do it," Jack urged.

Daniel moved forward and cut the cord. Then, a nurse wrapped the baby gently in a warm wrap, and Sylvia looked up expectantly.

"Danny, hold our son," Jack said, not trying to hide his own falling tears.

Daniel looked over at Kayla and mouthed a "Thank you" as he accepted the most precious gift he'd ever been given -- his son. His smile grew as he held the newborn baby for the very first time.

"Jack, look at him. One ... two ... three ... four ... five," Daniel counted, checking out the fingers and toes, the eyes and the ears.

"He's beautiful. Big sucker," Jack teased.

"How are you doing, Kayla?" Sylvia asked.

"Oh geez. Okay, but ... oh, Sylvia. I HATE BEING A WO...WO...WOMAN!"

Daniel looked over full of concern. Kayla looked like she was still going through labor.

"Okay. Sue, give Kayla more of the epidural," Sylvia instructed one of her nurses.

Jack looked up at Sylvia, surprised, "More? Why?"

Sylvia grinned as she continued her preparations.

"Don't blame me, gentlemen. You didn't want to know." Daniel looked at Jack wide-eyed. "Daniel, remember you're holding your son," Sylvia reminded.

"Mmm...mm...more?" Daniel stuttered in disbelief.

"Whoa! Kayla, this one is ready to pop now! Water's broken."

The hospital room bustled with activity as Baby Number Two prepared to make its way into the world.

One of the nurses took the baby from Daniel and walked over to Doctor Kolar. Jack watched as the doctor began the usual examination of the newborn. He had known something was off, but he hadn't expected this at all. Now, as he stood behind Sylvia, Jack was almost like a statue.

"This one is breeched," Sylvia said, alerting her staff.

"Syl," Kayla gasped, "No C-section unless we absolutely have to, okay?"

"Let's see if we can turn the little one. Come on you."

Daniel glanced at Jack, a look of worry on his face. Jack smiled and put his arm around his husband, whispering, "Happens all the time, Danny. Nothing to worry about."

"He's right, Daniel. No problems here. Stubborn like your fathers," Sylvia talked to the still unborn child. "C-section might be safer, but I think we can go ahead with a vaginal delivery. Whoa, not much of a choice anymore. There's the feet. Push, Kayla. Yes ... welcome to the world, little one. Almost. Another push, Kayla."

A minute later, the suspense was over.

"Another son! Congratulations you two! Baby B looks just fine," Sylvia beamed as the second Jackson-O'Neill let out a soft cry in contrast to the deafening howl of the first born infant.

"Jack, you cut the cord this time," Daniel insisted.

Jack moved into position and did the honors.

"Jack ..." Sylvia started to hand him the baby, assuming that he would also hold the infant first, but Jack shook his head.

"No, Danny first."

"Jack, I ..."

"Take our son, Danny."

Sylvia placed the second baby in Daniel's arms, and this time, Jack did all the counting, his chin resting on Daniel's shoulder as they smiled and marveled at the small child.

"Twins. Jack, we have twins."

After a minute, another nurse took the second baby. Jack and Daniel were holding on to each other, never taking their eyes off of their children.

"Okay, Kayla, let's get you cleaned up and see how many stitches we're going to need," Sylvia said as she started to walk back to the foot of the bed.

"Um, Doctor Preston?" Sue called out.

"OW .. WHAT THE ... OH MY GAWD," Kayla shouted.

Surprised, Sylvia looked at Kayla.

"What's wrong?"

"Doctor Preston, I think you'd better get over here."

Sylvia returned to her delivery position and smiled.

"Well, what do we have here? Hold on to your hats, people. We have triplets!"

"Trip...tr...triplets?" Jack asked, stunned, stuttering for the first time in his life.

"No, that can't be. Can it?" Daniel asked blankly. "Jack!" Daniel turned to look at Jack, who was positively pale, and Daniel wasn't sure his lover was breathing. "Jack, Love. Look at me, Babe," Daniel cupped Jack's face, gently slapping his cheeks to try and nudge his husband back to reality.

"Tr...trip...triplets?" Jack asked, once again stuttering.

Daniel smiled, his eyes twinkling with love and excitement.

"Triplets!" he said softly.

"Give Kayla another boost of the epidural, Sue," Sylvia ordered, "and make it quick. Baby C isn't going to be patient."

Two minutes later, a tiny baby emerged, letting out sad little cries at having been disturbed from the womb.

"Gentlemen, you have a daughter."

"Daughter? Jack, we have a daughter," Daniel cooed.

He again cut the cord and then held the precious baby in his arms, the most serene look on his face.

"She's so tiny, Sylvia."

"I know. Sue," Sylvia took the baby quickly from Daniel. "She's small, Daniel. We need to take precautions. Nothing to worry about."

Daniel was surprised not to feel Jack's hands on him, so he turned. Jack was looking ahead blankly.

"Jack?" Daniel walked up to his husband. "Jack? Say something. Jack!" Daniel ran his hand in front of Jack's eyes. "JACK!"

Jack startled.

"Triplets?"

Daniel smiled and drew Jack into a warm embrace.

"Isn't it amazing, Love? We have three children. Three. Ours. Three amazing new lives, and they're ours, Jack."

"Triplets," Jack repeated in shock. "Danny, I don't feel so good."

Daniel chuckled at his normally in control and calm General.

"Come here, Love. You'll be fine."

Daniel led Jack to a chair and told him to sit down. Both had their eyes glued on Sylvia and the nurses as they fussed with the three babies. Daniel's left hand was on Jack's shoulder, and he felt Jack reach up and take it. Daniel knelt down in front of his lover.

"You think they're okay, Danny?"

"Yes. Three. Three, Jack."

"I think I'm in shock, Danny."

"I know, but that's okay. I was in shock on our way here."

"I guess we balance out pretty well."

"I guess so. Oh my gawd, Kayla."

"I'm fine," the exhausted young woman said as a nurse assisted her into changing positions slightly.

"Sylvia, what's going on?" Jack called out a few minutes later.

"Just checking. Come see your babies."

Jack and Daniel walked hand in hand over to where the babies had all been examined. They watched as each infant had its footprints taken, and then each were given tiny plastic bands of identification that were placed on their wrists.

"They're perfect." Daniel beamed.

"Absolutely perfect," Jack echoed.

"She's so tiny. Sylvia?"

"We're going to put them all in incubators for a while, but they're strong. We need to keep an eye out on Baby Girl Jackson-O'Neill, but I think the boys are definitely going to be out on their own soon enough."

"Baby Girl Jackson-O'Neill," Daniel repeated, leaning his head on Jack's shoulder. "We're so blessed, Jack."

"Amen."

====On to Chapter Nine...